Synopses & Reviews
Japan Today is an introductory survey of contemporary Japan. It examines the development of Japan's postwar political system (up to the December 1983 general election) and its immense economic advances against a backcloth of social and cultural stability. The gradual changes in Japan's external relations are also discussed, as Japan's increasing industrial power has forced the nation to re-assess its earlier diffident approaches to foreign and defence policies. In addition to presenting political, economic and social analyses of present-day Japan, Professor Buckley offers an estimation of the future course of a nation attracting immense overseas interest for its ability to sustain substantial growth rates, high educational standards, and social cohesion. Japan may not present a model for other nations to emulate, but greater knowledge of its strengths and weaknesses may assist students, businessmen and visitors alike in gaining an appreciation of a formidable international competitor and ally.
Review
"Japan Today is one of the best books of its kind, offering a jargon-free look at what makes Japan tick. Books like this do a great deal to dispel misunderstandings concerning Japan." The Japan Times"So far there has been no reliable introduction to contemporary Japan that one could unhesitatingly recommend and confidently expect students to read. This book fills that gap." Political Studies"...this is a very good social, political, and economic survey of the postwar era. It would serve any beginning student well and therefore should be added to any college or university library. I would venture to say that it should be read by every serious student of Japan simply because it is a literate and well-reasoned analysis of contemporary Japanese history." The Journal of Asian Studies
Synopsis
This third edition considers Japan's changing fortunes in the l990s.
Synopsis
This new edition of Japan Today has been rewritten to take account of Japan's changing fortunes in the 1990s. It describes the recent setbacks in the country's economic and financial sectors and examines the major shifts in the political sphere. Despite the current challenges to Japan's prosperity, this is a remarkable story of postwar resurgence, material progress and social stability.
Synopsis
The new edition of Japan Today takes account of Japan's changing fortunes in the l990s, describing the recent economic setbacks and examining the major political shifts in power. Despite the current challenges, this is a remarkable story of post-war resurgence, material progress and social stability.
Table of Contents
Introduction; 1. Reconstruction: the occupation era; 2. Conservatism: political continuity and challenges; 3. Economism: growth and maturity; 4. Minimalism: hesitancy abroad; 5. Stability: social co-operation and change; 6. Malaise: contemporary Japan; 7. Prospects: future challenges.