Modernity of Independent and Self-Taught Scholars: From Darwin and Marx to Minakata Kumagusu and Makino Tomitaro

2025/01/17

Recently, university academia has been facing a crisis. The primary reason is likely that the profession of university researcher has lost its appeal to young people (due to factors such as the long time it takes to secure a stable position and the fact that they have become much busier than in the past). On the other hand, with the development of the internet, independent research is making remarkable progress. The activities of people who pursue scholarship as a hobby while working regular jobs have become increasingly prominent. However, unfortunately, in modern Japan, the two are divided, and it is extremely difficult for university researchers (professionals) and independent amateurs to cooperate as equals in the same space. Even so, when and how did this situation arise?

Having long studied the naturalist Minakata Kumagusu, I have been concerned about this issue for a long time. Kumagusu began his research life while studying in London and worked at places like the British Museum, but strictly as an amateur. Despite this, he was recognized as a full-fledged researcher. However, upon returning to Japan in 1900, Kumagusu struggled with the gap. In Meiji-era Japan, there was the "official" scholarship of the University of Tokyo, which was clearly separated from the private sector.

In fact, here lies one of the clues to solving the mystery. Since the University of Tokyo was a school created by the government, it was naturally on the official side. In contrast, Oxford and Cambridge Universities in the UK are institutions that originated in the private sector and are not national universities. Therefore, their aspect as government-sanctioned institutions is also weak.

Even in Japan, there are examples where professionals and amateurs cooperated successfully. While serving as a lecturer at the University of Tokyo, Tomitaro Makino was able to compile botanical information from all over Japan into illustrated books by connecting with plant enthusiasts in various regions. Kunio Yanagita, who was a high-ranking official, mobilized people interested in folklore to collect customs and folktales. Kumagusu was involved with both Makino and Yanagita.

The relationship between professionals and amateurs differs between the two countries, characterized by a "horizontal" model in the UK and a "vertical" model in Japan. The positioning of scholarship in society offers a glimpse into the nature of that country.

I hope this book provides hints for an academic space where many people, whether in universities or the private sector, can enjoy scholarship and contribute to the development of science.

Modernity of Independent and Self-Taught Scholars: From Darwin and Marx to Minakata Kumagusu and Makino Tomitaro

Masaki Shimura

Chuko Shinsho

288 pages, 1,056 yen (tax included)

*Affiliations and titles are as of the time of publication.