DOI: 10.4324/9780415249126-G107-1
Version: v1, Published online: 1998
Retrieved May 29, 2023, from https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/thematic/shotoku-constitution/v-1
Version: v1, Published online: 1998
Retrieved May 29, 2023, from https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/thematic/shotoku-constitution/v-1
Article Summary
The Shōtoku Constitution is the earliest fundamental political document of Japan. Promulgated in ad 604, it is ascribed to the regent Shōtoku, who was also a devout Buddhist and philosopher. The document reflects the influences of Confucianism, Buddhism, Daoism and Legalism in its various provisions; it is strongly marked by Chinese thought rather than being influenced by Shintō. Not a constitution in the modern sense, the document is rather a set of ideals, guiding principles and basic requirements for those in government. As well as helping to lay the foundation for a unified Japan, the Constitution also marks the beginning of a period of assimilation of Chinese culture and philosophy.
Citing this article:
Kachi, Yukio. Shōtoku Constitution, 1998, doi:10.4324/9780415249126-G107-1. Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Taylor and Francis, https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/thematic/shotoku-constitution/v-1.
Copyright © 1998-2023 Routledge.
Kachi, Yukio. Shōtoku Constitution, 1998, doi:10.4324/9780415249126-G107-1. Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Taylor and Francis, https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/thematic/shotoku-constitution/v-1.
Copyright © 1998-2023 Routledge.