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The ongoing turmoil in East Asia highlight that differences historical memory between nations lead to divergent perceptions, persistent security dilemmas and ongoing disputes over territory. The understanding of the past without doubt impacts the present, as well as the future. Interpretation of history therefore must be seen as a cause for conflict. That understanding must be the starting point to preempt further tensions, and prevent conflict and establishing a sustainable relationship in this region, particularly between China and Japan. China and Japan have different perceptions about how the islands in the East China Sea have come to dispute. The history may be the same, but there are two different stories to be told. What causes those perception gaps that lead to mutual distrust? This essay not only identifies the sources of animosity, but also provides recommendations to break through that cycle of mistrust. Both sides would agree that a huge perception gap exists be tween China and Japan. Both view themselves as the victim and the other as the aggressor. Each party sees itself as peaceful, while the other state is aggressive. Both mistrust the other’s intentions, and expect the other to be plotting against them. What it actually means is a clash of two very different interpretations of history and differences in identity. The clash is the result of two very different ways of teaching history. In order to improve bilateral relations, both Japan and China need to take some time to replay the events of tension and gain perspective on the causes of tension. Without knowing exactly what the other side’s perspective is and reasoning behind the perspective, it is impossible to find a solution. Scholars of two countries from different disciplines should conduct regular conferences and meetings. These dialogues should aim to bring the suppressed differences of perception to the surface. The media of the two countries should report the scholars’ findings to the general public.
As tensions between Japan and China continue to bubble over islands in the East China Sea, scholars from the two countries outline not only the origins, but also the policy options to resolve the territorial dispute. Together with George Mason University, the Wilson Center hosted a conference on how the ongoing conflict may be resolved in late January. Clash of National Identities: China, Japan, and the East China Territorial Dispute is a compliation of essays by the conference participants.