The Daily News. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1922. THE MARTIAL SPIRIT.

Taranaki Daily News, 3 February 1922, Page 4

The Daily News. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1922. THE MARTIAL SPIRIT.

The views held by the Japanese Minister of War concerning the need for expanding the martial spirit in a corresponding ratio to the reduction of armament, will doubtless prove puzzling to many. There is far more in this, contention than appears on the surface, and it is quite likely that the condensed report for transmission by Press cable does not convey the full meaning of the theory advanced. Apparently the intention of this Japanese Minister was to emphasise the great lesson conveyed by past history that nations only remajn strong and virile so long as the people are stimulated by the practical patriotism which finds expression in the doctrine of keeping fit, and that the underlying principle on which that doctrine is based is fostered and made vigorous by what is generally expressed as the martial spirit. The march of the ages, and the influence of civilisation, have in large measure developed the primitive human instinct to defend personal property against all comers, and in the case of nations to organise and become strong so as to ensure security from rapacious enemies. That inspiring motive acted as ’ the cradle of the martial spirit. It is the cultivation of that spirit on the right lines, and to guard against its abuse as a phase of the lust of conquest, that affords a befitting outlet for physical vigor and makes for a virility on which a wisely governed nation can work out its destiny with confidence while attaining efficiency and national stamina. It is the peoples who have become effete through inaction, luxury and the love of pleasure and ease who sap the vitality of a nation and bring about its downfall. Just as it is the aim of all true educationalists to co-ordinate the process of mental and physical development in order to develop a sound mind in a sound body, so should there be a similar co-operation in rational affairs in the direction of peace, progress and expansion. There must, however, be a rallying point to act 1 as a stimulant and incentive, and in the case of nations that point takes the form of patriotism. Japan s patriotism assumes the shape of ancestor worship of a somewhat intense na- ■ ture. In advocating that special care should be taken to nurture the martial spirit of the country, the Japanese War Minister did little more than recall the tenor of that historical rescript which was issued by the Mikado in October. 1905, on the occasion of the conclusion of peace after the Japonese victory over Russia. That document is throughout permeated hv the national spirit of Japan, 'and attributes the success of l.Japanese arms “to the benign

spirit of our ancestors . . . and Ithe self-denying patriotism of all our people.” The concluding paragraph may fittingly be recalled at the present time as a worthy contribution to the ethics of national and international life. It runs:

“In this age, when there is no delay in the progress of the world, there should be no cessation of the efforts to improve the administration of the nation’s affairs, both internal and external. while military efficiency should be maintained in full vigor, even in times of peace. An earnest endeavor should be made to attain success in peaceful pursuits, so that in equal measure with its power, the prosperity of the country may be maintained and its permanent progress ensured. We strongly admonish our subjects against manifestations of vainglorious pride, and command them to attend to their lawful avocations and do all that lies in their power to strengthen the Empire.”

It is impossible to. conceive any sentiments more suitable for the evolution of a great and peaceful natiqn. Thjs rescript explains clearly the true meaning 'of the War Ministers advice not to neglect the martial spirit, and no doubt inspired the pronouncement. There is a, vast difference between the martial spirit and militarism. The former is an incentive to fitness, efficiency and progress, while the latter is but a modern substitute for the primitive and savage lust for conquest. If the people of the British Empire take a right view of their duties and responsibilities they also will foster the martial spirit which will bequeath to prosperity the fruits of the greatness that has been built up in the past.