In the 30 years following the end of the Cold War and the advent of globalization, the concept of 'region' has undergone a dramatic redefinition. Consequently, the systems of knowledge concerning 'region'—that is, the field of 'area studies'—are being newly configured, crossing and re-crossing boundaries. We are entering an era of 'post-area studies.'
 
 Against this backdrop, to explore the 'future of Japan' and the 'future of Japanese studies,' the Institute of Japanese Studies at Seoul National University is hosting a series of seven lectures with leading experts in their respective fields to mark its 20th anniversary.

For the fifth lecture, we are pleased to invite Professor Katsuya Hirano from UCLA. We ask for your interest and participation.

Date: Thursday, September 19, 2024, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

ZOOM ID: 583 289 8745
ZOOM Link: https://snu-ac-kr.zoom.us/j/5832898745
Anyone can join without prior registration.

Speaker: Katsuya Hirano, Professor of History, UCLA
Lecture Title: The Asymmetry of 'National Sovereignty' and the Origins of Modern Violence: With a Focus on Modern Japan
Language: Japanese

Lecture Summary:
Since the 17th century, the concept of "national sovereignty" has legitimized colonialism and imperialist wars. This idea is rooted in the notion of a "corporate nation," where societies with such a state are believed to have the right to defend their property, territory, and survival through warfare. In contrast, societies without such statehood were seen as territories to be occupied and ruled by nations with legal personality. This asymmetry forms the foundation of the modern geopolitical worldview and is linked to the racialized notions of "progress" and "barbarism" found in civilization theory. This lecture will examine how the concept of "national sovereignty," established after the Peace of Westphalia, normalized colonialism and imperialist wars, using the example of Japan's modernization.

Inquiries: 880-8503 / ijs@snu.ac.kr