Shinto and the State, 1868-1988

Delve into the intricate relationship between Japan's national identity and spirituality in "Shinto and the State, 1868-1988" by John Breen. Published in 1991 by Princeton University Press, this insightful paperback spans 224 pages, exploring the profound influence of the Japanese state on Shinto practices since the Meiji Restoration. Breen meticulously examines how state-sponsored Shinto has been used as a tool for political agenda, focusing on emblematic symbols such as the Yasukuni Shrine and its regional counterparts. As the narrative unfolds, readers will uncover the ongoing debates surrounding these symbols and their cultural significance, shedding light on the struggles for identity and meaning in modern Japan. Ideal for scholars, students, and anyone interested in Japan’s history and culture, this book offers a thought-provoking perspective on spirituality and statecraft.