"Pursuing Wa" presents a well-balanced view of both sides of the relationship between Japan and the U.S. The readings in the anthology emphasize the importance of this relationship as the cornerstone of peace in the region.
The book examines Japan-American relations from a historical perspective, with reading selections on the diplomacy of Theodore Roosevelt and the quest to balance power in Asia. It discusses Northeast Asia and the Pacific immediately after World War II as well as occupied Japan.
Contemporary issues are also addressed with articles and essays on how Japan is changing and what this means for the United States, corruption in Japanese politics, the role played by the Japan lobby in American politics and diplomacy, and triangularity issues such as collaboration, hedging, and identity politics in the relationship.
"Pursuing Wa" helps students understand the vital nature of the connection between the two countries. The book is suitable for courses in Asian studies and international relations.
Eric Messersmith lectures at the Institute for Asian Studies at Florida International University and serves as the executive director of the Japan Cultural Foundation in Miami. He holds a Ph.D. in International Studies from the University of Miami, with his current research focusing on cultural, political, and economic relations between Japan and the United States. For many years, Dr. Messersmith lived in Kyoto, Japan, and was an assistant professor at Kinran College in Osaka. While there, he developed an extensive knowledge of Japanese history and society, culminating in his ordination as a practicing Tea Master of the Urasenke School.