The Strain of Modernization
n Japanese success had its costs,
among them poor living
standards in crowded cities and
arguments between generations
over Westernization.
The emergence of political parties
caused disputes with the emperor
and his ministers, leading to
frequent elections and political
assassinations.
Many intellectuals worried about the
loss of identity in a changing world;
others were concerned at lack of
economic opportunities for the
enlarged educated class.