Seinen-Kai (The Young-Men's Associaeions) and the “Let's Read” Movement

Abstract

This article examines the reasons behind the “Let's Read” movement initiated by the Young Men's Associations. These groups evolved out of the youth groups that were formed all over the country in the 1890s and that carried out all manner movements connected with learning. The “Let's Read” movement, as one part of the attempt to improve outdated customs, was undertaken in the spirit of the practical aquisition of knowledge. The decision to begin the “Let's Read” movement was made when it was noted that a there were a number of Young Men's Associations that had expressed a strong interest in learning more about society and politics.