Popular Book 'Gyakuni Shitara Yoku Wakaru Kyoiku Chokugo' Re-released in Popular Edition

The popular edition of the book 'Gyakuni Shitara Yoku Wakaru Kyoiku Chokugo: Hontou wa Kikenshisou Nanka ja Nakatta' (Understanding the Imperial Rescript on Education by Reversing It: It Was Actually Not a Dangerous Ideology), which offers an accessible interpretation of the debates surrounding the Imperial Rescript on Education, was published on June 9, 2026.

In post-war Japan, the Imperial Rescript on Education is frequently discussed as a "symbol of militarism" or a "dangerous ideology." However, the current reality is that few people have the opportunity to actually read its contents.

Based on this situation, this book starts from the core question: "What is actually written in the Imperial Rescript on Education?" It explains the content, historical background, and post-war evaluations of the document.

A unique feature of this book is its attempt at a "Reverse Imperial Rescript on Education."

By intentionally reversing the virtues of the Rescript and presenting them as:

- "Do not show filial piety to your parents."

- "Do not get along with your brothers and sisters."

- "Do not obey laws and regulations."

it structure allows readers to think about the values the original Rescript was actually teaching.

Furthermore, the book discusses not only the Imperial Rescript itself but also touches upon modern Japanese history, pre- and post-war educational policies, and debates surrounding democracy and patriotism, while offering reflections on Japanese historical awareness and the state of education.

Author Mitsuru Kurayama emphasizes the importance of reading the original text and thinking for oneself before debating the pros and cons of the Rescript. The core theme running through the book is a warning against uncritically accepting public opinion or common theories, using the keyword "somehow."

Moreover, Kurayama points out regarding the debates on the Imperial Rescript, "The Imperial Rescript on Education has long been a subject of labeling, and its content and historical background have often been discussed without sufficient examination." He adds, "The forces that have viewed the Rescript as dangerous through agitation rather than debate are now largely losing influence. That is precisely why, in the Reiwa era, I want people to ask about the 'Reverse Imperial Rescript' and re-examine the Imperial Rescript on Education itself."

This book is intended to provide materials for readers to first encounter the original text and think for themselves, regardless of their position on whether to support or oppose the Imperial Rescript. It provides new perspectives not only for those interested in the Rescript but also for readers concerned with modern Japanese education, historical awareness, and moral education.

[Main Contents]

- Full text and explanation of the Imperial Rescript on Education

- Includes the popular "Reverse Imperial Rescript on Education"

- Examination of the relationship between pre-war Japan and the Rescript

- Reflections on post-war education and historical awareness

- Introduction of debates on family, morality, patriotism, and democracy

[Book Information]

- Title: (Popular Edition) Gyakuni Shitara Yoku Wakaru Kyoiku Chokugo

- Author: Mitsuru Kurayama

- Specifications: Shinsho size, 176 pages

- ISBN: 978-4-8024-0262-0

- Release Date: June 15, 2026

- Price: 1,000 yen (excluding tax)

- Publisher: Heart Publishing

- Product URL: https://www.810.co.jp/hon/ISBN978-4-8024-0262-0.html