Imperialism hurts the central imperialist power the most
For example, Ancient Rome. They expanded their borders so far, stretching from the top of England to the bottom of Egypt. This size and power/cultural difference eventually led to internal struggles, external invasions, and the emergence of Christianity from Judea, which degraded Rome over time. Had the Romans minded their own business, not only would we have a less globohomo Europe with emerging Celto-Germanic powers, but Rome itself would've stayed pure.
Same with 19th-20th century European colonialism. Had the Europeans kept their industrialization to themselves, they wouldn't have had to deal with the eventual mass immigration from the late 20th century, since those migrants are really attracted to Europe's living standards and culture. Europe would've remained European.
In other words, it doesn't matter how great and superior you are. Keep all the good stuff to yourself and mind everyone else's business, or things will end up badly for you. Japan before Meiji knew this, and that's how they remained Japanese for so long.
Same with 19th-20th century European colonialism. Had the Europeans kept their industrialization to themselves, they wouldn't have had to deal with the eventual mass immigration from the late 20th century, since those migrants are really attracted to Europe's living standards and culture. Europe would've remained European.
In other words, it doesn't matter how great and superior you are. Keep all the good stuff to yourself and mind everyone else's business, or things will end up badly for you. Japan before Meiji knew this, and that's how they remained Japanese for so long.
