Journal paper

Issue No.	No. 73
Title	Meiji Japan and the context of the thought formation of Educator Misawa Tadasu
Author	Isoko Tsuda
Page	155-196
Abstract	Misawa Tadasu is acclaimed for his role in establishing the ethos and campus culture of Taihoku Higher School (1922~1945), often referred to as a “liberal” and “outstanding principal.” He assumed the position of the second principal, succeeding Matsumura Tsutae, and took office in Taiwan in May 1925. During his approximately four and a half years in office, he oversaw the completion of the new school building, the design and planning of various student activities, and the composition of the school’s first alma mater, thereby establishing the foundation of various systems and cultures at the institution. This study has two main objectives: First, based on previous research findings and interviews with family descendants, to reevaluate the life and works of Misawa Tadasu. Second, to examine Misawa's formative years, including his studies at the Department of Philosophy at the Imperial University of Tokyo, his involvement in Christian faith activities, his experience of studying in the United States, and the influence of these experiences on the development of his ideas. He is later regarded as having established a school culture in colonial Taiwan that was both “liberal” and “democratic.” What social and intellectual influences did enlightened educators like him receive during their youth in Meiji Japan? Through an exploration of the early educational experiences of the Japanese educator Misawa Tadasu, this paper seeks to understand and contemplate the multifaceted nature of Meiji-era Japanese intellectuals’ attitudes towards the individual, freedom, the state, and the diversity of their thoughts.
Keyword	Misawa Tadasu, Taihoku Higher School, liberalism, Tokyo Imperial University, Hongo church
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