The President regards the Japanese as a brave people but courage, though useful in time of war, is subordinate to knowledge of arts hence, courage without such knowledge is not to be highly esteemed.
Townsend Harris, an American diplomat, shares his perspective on the Japanese people, highlighting the importance of knowledge over bravery in times of war.
Harris emphasizes that courage, though valuable in war, is secondary to knowledge of arts and sciences, implying that intellectual pursuits are more valuable than martial prowess.
This quote likely reflects Harris's experiences as a diplomat in Japan during the late 19th century, a time of significant cultural and political change.
Townsend Harris was an American diplomat and educator who served as the first U.S. Consul to Japan in 1856.
This quote may serve as a reminder of the importance of education and intellectual pursuits in times of conflict or uncertainty.