In other instances, the conflict will be less open, at first, yet the undercurrent of tension will cause more than a few ripples on an otherwise smooth surface. This is especially true in the case of Japan, where the supreme rule of form is designed to mask such undercurrents, while subtly underscoring them. It is just the latest policy being foisted on Japan by the United States. But, then again, we should hardly be surprised that Western gaijin have arrogated to themselves the privilege of deciding who is and is not a true Japanese nationalist. Furthermore, it seems to me that there is something inherently and essentially nationalist about insisting on the right to defend the territory and interests of the country by engaging in war.
Japan is now defenseless against the possibility of attack.
And, in wishing for it, US policymakers will not necessarily be all that pleased with the results. The strong pro-China lobby in the US and I include both factions, the mainlanders and the Taiwanese is not likely to be all that receptive to a resurgent Japan. Powerful pro-China interests, influential in the Bush administration, will likely be aroused to opposition. Best of all, Japanese rearmament, and the cultural-political shift this implies, will eventually lead to the demand for an end to the US occupation, a demand that has been getting louder and more insistent lately. Surely the noninterventionist Szamuely thinks this would be a good thing.