The book "Chrysanthemum and Knife" is like a delicate window, through which we can get a glimpse of the depth and uniqueness of the oriental soul. The character of the Japanese nation shows a fascinating paradoxical beauty: they are able to pursue excellence with perseverance and maintain a gentle demeanor in ordinary daily life; They advocate force and have a deep love for aesthetics; There is a rebellious side to their personalities as well as a courteous side in social situations. This contradiction, aptly embodied in their culture, seems to be a unique aesthetic that makes people fall in love with it. 
In the first chapter of The Chrysanthemum and the Sword, Professor Ruth asks a thought-provoking question: why do these seemingly contradictory extremes coexist so harmoniously in Japanese culture? The answer may be hidden in one word - "benevolence". In Chinese culture, loyalty, filial piety, benevolence and righteousness have a strict order, and the premise of a lieutenant colonel is "people". However, in Japanese culture, loyalty, filial piety, benevolence and righteousness are placed side by side. Absolute loyalty and obedience to the rulers became an integral part of the Japanese national character. This loyalty and obedience to the ruler allowed the Japanese emperor to remain in the same line for all generations, never changing dynasties. 
Under this rigid hierarchy, the Japanese have developed a national identity of repaying their kindness in case of emergency. They are terribly afraid of causing trouble to others, even to the point of incomprehensibility. They have a strong sense of self-esteem and at the same time have an extremely sensitive glass heart. This contradiction is what makes the Japanese national character unique and why they are able to persevere in the face of adversity. 
We should look at Japanese culture from an objective perspective. Loyalty, filial piety, righteousness, and righteousness, behind these words are the embarrassing predicament of national culture; The chrysanthemum and the knife explore the mottled background color in the depths of the soul of this nation. It is only when we truly understand and respect this contradiction that we can better understand the fascinating nation of Japan. Because in the depths of the soul of this nation, there is both a spirit of perseverance and a gentle demeanor; It not only has the aspect of advocating force, but also has an aesthetic love that goes deep into the bone marrow; It has both an unruly personality and a humble and courteous social demeanor. This contradiction is what makes the Japanese national character unique and why they are able to persevere in the face of adversity. 
At the same time, we should also realize that this contradiction is not unique to the Japanese nation. Each nation has its own unique character and culture, and these characters and cultures often contain various contradictions. It is precisely these contradictions that make each nation have its own unique charm and value. Therefore, when facing different peoples and cultures, we should understand and respect their differences and uniqueness with an open and inclusive mind. Only in this way can we better appreciate and understand this diverse and beautiful world.