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.

The quote by Townsend Harris, "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," offers a nuanced view of courage and knowledge. Harris acknowledges the bravery of the Japanese people, particularly in times of conflict. However, he emphasizes that courage, while essential during war, must be paired with knowledge, particularly in the arts and other fields of human achievement. In this context, Harris argues that intellect and practical knowledge are even more important than raw courage when it comes to building a prosperous and enduring society.

Harris suggests that courage alone, without the backing of education, skills, and the development of intellectual pursuits, is not sufficient to achieve greatness. While bravery might be necessary in wartime or in the face of immediate danger, it is the knowledge of arts—such as science, philosophy, and technology—that ultimately propels society forward. The quote highlights the idea that progress and civilization depend more on intellectual growth and innovation than on mere physical courage or force.

The comparison Harris makes between courage and knowledge also underscores his belief in the value of wisdom and education in shaping the future of a nation. While he respects the courage of the Japanese, he implies that for true advancement, society must also cultivate the arts and intellectual disciplines, which provide a foundation for long-term success and peace. This view reflects a broader philosophy that the most important battles are not always fought on the battlefield but in the realms of learning and innovation.

The origin of the quote lies in Harris's role as the first United States Consul and later as the first U.S. Ambassador to Japan in the 19th century. His experiences with Japanese culture during a time of isolation and political change led him to value the importance of intellectual exchange between East and West. His perspective on courage and knowledge reflects his broader diplomatic efforts to open Japan to the world and to emphasize the need for mutual understanding and growth through education.