Building an IR Theory with `Japanese Characteristics': Nishida Kitaro and `Emptiness'

Abstract

This essay problematizes the identity of Japan as an international actor and the importance of the metaphysical notion of a historical consciousness. Outlining the development of Japanese intellectual tradition, it argues the thinking of Nishida Kitaro (1870-1945) could provide an important guideline for Japan to regain a sense of place and purpose in the world after its defeat in WWII. The essay focuses on how Nishida, the father of modern Japanese philosophy and pioneer of the Kyoto School, systematised a Chinese dialecticism into a `logic of emptiness'. Framing Japan as another potential source for a pluralised theorising of IR, the essay pursues two interrelated objectives. First, it hopes to give some non-Western philosophical contribution towards IR theory through Japanese inspired constructivist theorizing. Second, it suggests Nishida's philosophy has the force to renew Japanese political action in the domestic and international realm.