Bushido, as interpreted in World War II, meant that anyone who surrendered was less than human, with tragic results. Could it be interpreted in a slightly different manner? People who order a surrender are viewed the same—but soldiers who lay down their arms at the orders of their superior officers are seen as having done their duty in obedience to superiors. After all, that unquestioned obedience is a part of bushido, as practiced then.
If so, what long term effects might it have, but during the war and after?
If so, what long term effects might it have, but during the war and after?