In imperialism, respect for the 'emperor' who is said to govern his people with virtue, justice and benevolence is advocated, over respect for 'supremacy' or a supreme ruler who governs his people with military force (military rule).
尊王論は、武力（覇道）をもって支配する「覇」（覇者）に対し、徳（王道）をもって支配する「王」（王者）を尊ぶことを説く。