Japanese Catholic Intellectuals and Newman Studies

This fascinating study discusses the history of Japanese Catholic intellectuals and their reception of the spirit and ideas of John Henry Newman in historical, geopolitical and cultural contexts. Newman, living in the nineteenth century, discussed issues critical to his age such as liberalism, secularism, education, conscience, and faith. Many scholars living in different ages and nations have been attracted to his works. This proves that the relevance of his idea and spirituality are universal and not limited to his time alone. On the other hand, it would be reasonable to assume that reception and representation of Newman works by scholars were affected to different extents by the various ages, cultures and traditions involved. From this viewpoint, Japanese Catholic Intellectuals and Newman Studies argues for the unique history of the formation of Catholic intellectuals and their representation of Newman in Japanese modernization.