Final answer:
Goemon's opinion of Americans reflected a belief in Japanese cultural superiority and criticized Americans as hedonistic and culturally devoid. Different Japanese social groups reacted in various ways to this stance, influenced by their social status and interests. Misconceptions based on stereotypes were a topic of broader societal discussion as well.
Step-by-step explanation:
In understanding the perspective of Goemon regarding Americans, it's indicated that there was a belief in the purity and superiority of the Japanese race in comparison to Americans, who were considered hedonistic and lacking in culture. This viewpoint saw Americans as engaging in cultural appropriation and being profiteers of war, a stark contrast to the Japanese self-perception of cultural richness and morality. The document elaborating on these views likely elicited varying reactions among different Japanese social classes, such as the samurai, shogunate supporters, peasants, and merchants, all of whom may have had distinct interpretations shaped by their respective roles and interests in society.
Okuma Shigenobu, in his work, discussed Western views but his specific points and evidence are not provided here, thus it's challenging to analyze his contributions thoroughly. However, considering the era and the nationalism prevalent in Japan during that time, his discourse likely involved critical assessments of Western influences and the need to maintain Japanese identity and traditions.