Reverse Psychology of Confiscated Ancient Intellectual Properties in the West: A Case Study on the Appropriation of the Swastika by Nazi Germany and the Mazda by Japanese Automotive Industry

Abstract This paper explores the concept of reverse psychology as it applies to the transformation of cultural and intellectual symbols, focusing on the swastika as a case study. Once a universal symbol of good fortune and harmony originating in Asia, the swastika was repurposed by the Nazi regime in Germany, becoming associated with violence and supremacy. This ideological shift demonstrates how the symbolic identity of cultural artifacts can be dramatically altered when appropriated by external entities for political agendas, which often results in the cultural and psychological alienation of the symbol's original communities. The paper further investigates the implications of such cultural appropriations for contemporary society and the efforts to restore the swastika’s original significance. The concept of reverse psychology of ancient cultural heritage also applies to the concept of Mazda (ancient Persian God of righteousness) currently being used as a brand in automotive industry which needs careful consideration. Keywords: Intellectual property rights, Mazda, Swastika, Nazi Germany, Hakenkreuz