Tanaka is attempting to grab our attention by informing us that most of the suicide bombers that were used in the war were young university and college students. It is true that these students were recruited "on a voluntary basis" (Tanaka 294) but I have to wonder if they were really volunteering or if someone was putting pressure on them to fight in the war.
Tanaka made it clear that it wasn't really their emperor they showed loyalty to but to the mothers of those fighting "the belief that to die for the "country" was [to] show filial piety to one's own parents, particularly to one's mother" (Tanaka 296). This further makes me believe that it is infact the parents that convince their children to fight in the war.
By making a comparison to Kamikaze pilots and Palestinian suicide bombers, Tanaka makes a point in saying that "one important difference stems from the fact that kamikaze attacks were implemented and legitimized by the military regime of a nation-state, while "terrorists suicide bombing" is generally planned and authorized by organizations outside a state structure" (Tanaka 298).
Tanaka's essay made me wonder why someone would volunteer themselves as a suicide bomber? How could you enjoy life when you know that at any time you will be giving up your life. How can you make peace with that knowledge? I for one know that I couldn't imagine volunteering myself as a suicide bomber.
Tanaka, Y. (2008). Japan’s kamikaze pilots and contemporary suicide bombers.
In Ackley, K., Blank, G., & Hume, S. (Eds). Perspectives on contemporary
issues. (p 294-298). Toronto: Nelson.
It is a shocking thought to think how one would take their own life in the name of war, I agree I couldnt see my self doing something like that. However every circumstance is different especially if these military groups are forcing these people into these situations.
ReplyDeleteI would have to agree with Jkersch, it just does not make sense?
ReplyDeleteMy interpretation of why these students volunteer themselves is because when the army/navy does its recruiting they pride themselves on "fighting for your country, do the honorable thing" so these children think it is the right thing to do, to show their love for their country.
It's difficult to choose when you are not in the same situation. Imagine if Vancouver Island was supply blockaded, limiting access to basic supplies and food. The block halts all economic growth so job prospects are low so you are stuck as a prisoner on the island with no food or purpose. I don't know if suicide bombing is that out of the question when you have no hope for a decent life.
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