1 Introduction
“An Encouragement of Learning” is a book written by Yukichi Fukuzawa in the early Meiji period, where he strongly emphasized the importance of education during Japan’s modernization process.
At that time, Japan was undergoing rapid changes, moving from the Edo period to the Meiji period, with a strong push toward Westernization and modernization.
In this context, Fukuzawa passionately argued that learning was truly essential for both individuals and the country to become stronger.
This book consists of 17 chapters in total and thoroughly discusses the meaning of learning, the concept behind it, and how we should learn.
First, one of the famous phrases that appears at the beginning of the book is, “Heaven does not create one man above or below another,” which is a beautiful expression, isn’t it?
This phrase teaches us that “everyone is born equal.”
However, Fukuzawa goes on to say, “Even though we are born equal, differences will arise if we do not make an effort.”
In other words, the message here is that if you don’t make an effort to better yourself through learning, you might end up struggling in life and not being able to live the life you want.
2 Background of “An Encouragement of Learning”
When “An Encouragement of Learning” was written, Japan was slightly lagging behind compared to Western countries.
It was the time of the Meiji Restoration when the old feudal system was breaking down, and Japan was trying to build a new society.
Within this context, Fukuzawa felt strongly that “education is necessary for the nation to further develop.”
Specifically, Fukuzawa stated that “Western countries are progressing because their educational systems are advanced.”
For example, countries like Britain and the United States were very advanced in science and technology, and that strengthened their economy and military power.
On the other hand, Japan had closed itself off from foreign relations for a long time, so the development of academic and technological advancements had fallen behind.
What Fukuzawa particularly emphasized was that “education is not just about increasing knowledge.”
He believed that education should be “something that is practically useful.”
For instance, he used the term “practical learning” to encourage people to learn knowledge and skills that would be useful in society and everyday life.
It’s important not to become overly intellectual but to contribute to society in practical ways.
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