A Study on Jiro Hosoi, the Japanese Dean of Beijing Fu Jen Catholic University during the Second Sino-Japanese War

Abstract

In Japanese-occupied Beijing during the Second Sino-Japanese War from 1937 to 1945, Fu Jen Catholic University still enjoyed the freedom of academy and a stable condition to some extent. Without Jiro Hosoi, the Japanese Dean in charge of this university, it could not be achieved. This historical study aims to clarify Hosoi's philosophical standpoint and how it influenced his deeds in his Beijing days. As an admirer of Pestalozzi and a devout Catholic, he always behaved himself like Pestalozzi. He shared a cosmopolitan affection to all the staff and students at Fu Jen, including Chinese, Japanese and Germans. This even made some Japanese view him as a traitor. His effort was a key factor that helped Fu Jen survive the colonial days of Beijing.