Worrying revival of imperial rescript as educational tool

In response to a question from a lawmaker about the use of the Imperial Rescript on Education, Japan's Cabinet said on March 31 that use of the rescript as material for learning is not denied as long as it is in a manner that does not violate the Constitution, the Basic Law of Education and other legal provisions.

The rescript, which was issued in 1890 and nullified in 1948, has hit the headlines in Japan after televised footage of children aged 3 to 5 being taught to recite the rescript in a kindergarten in Osaka shocked the country.

"Be filial to your parents, affectionate to your brothers and sisters," the uniformed children chant, bowing to photos of the emperor and empress. "Should emergencies arise, offer yourselves courageously to the state."