Book launchWednesday 7 May 2008
6:00pm – 8:00pm
Governing Japan: Divided Politics in a Resurgent Economy
Daiwa Foundation Japan House
Organised by the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation
By J A A Stockwin
Published by Blackwell Publishing
The fourth edition of ‘Governing Japan’ is much revised and expanded to take into account developments in the new millennium. It argues against the view that Japanese politics is guided by consensus, revealing instead fundamental differences of opinion over many issues of substance. Taking a chronological approach, with emphasis on the period since 1945, the book explores the expanding role of the prime minister, as well as ways that government ministries and conservative politicians have been adopting positions further to the right than hitherto. It examines a wide range of topics, including the dominant – but now challenged – role of the Liberal Democratic Party, and serious tensions with China and North Korea. The regime and aftermath of Prime Minister Koizumi (2001-6) is emphasised, as is the impact of globalisation on the Japanese political economy.
About the contributors
Professor Stockwin
Professor J A A Stockwin is Emeritus Fellow of St. Antony’s College and the Nissan Institute of Japanese Studies, University of Oxford. His recent publications include: ‘Dictionary of the Modern Politics of Japan’ (2003) and ‘Collected Writings of J A A Stockwin’ (2004). Professor Stockwin is joint General Editor of the Nissan Institute/Routledge Japanese Studies series. In 2004, he received The Order of the Rising Sun from the Japanese Government in recognition of his tireless efforts to promote Japanese Studies in the UK.
Professor Janet Hunter
Professor Janet Hunter (discussant) is the Saji Professor of Economic History at LSE. Her publications include ‘Women and the Labour Market in Japan’s Industrialising Economy: The Textile Industry before the Pacific War’ (RoutledgeCurzon).