The author of this interesting and thought-provoking study was a Norwegian diplomat who served in both Germany and Japan. He acquired a good knowledge of both countries and their languages. His analysis is based on careful study and not blurred by prejudice.
In examining the two countries, he writes: "Two states, two powers, were defeated in the Second World War. Yet though crushed they arose from the ashes . . . and gradually regained respect, status and leadership.
Germany and Japan have striking similarities in recent history through war and then economic and gradual political renewal but, at the same time, display a very different cultural and historical experience."