Overcome by Modernity

Discover the profound insights of Harry D. Harootunian in his compelling book, Overcome by Modernity, published by Princeton University Press in 2002. This thought-provoking work delves into the perspectives of a generation of Japanese intellectuals who grappled with the rapid transformations of modernity during the inter-war period (1918-1939). Harootunian explores how these thinkers, akin to their European peers, perceived modernity as a relentless spectacle that disrupted traditional cultural values, replacing them with a new culture driven by fantasy and desire. Spanning 480 pages, this paperback edition is an essential read for those interested in Asian and Middle Eastern history, cultural studies, and postcolonial studies. Engage with the intricate dynamics of Japan's historical landscape and understand the intellectual currents that shaped its modern identity.