Japan Today 3rd Ed.

Description: In a new edition of his introductory survey of contemporary Japan, Roger Buckley traces the country's history from its surrender in August 1945 to the present day. The updated edition, which has been rewritten to take account of Japan's changing fortunes in the 1990s, describes the recent setbacks in its economic and financial sectors and examines the major shifts in the political sphere. Despite the current challenges to the nation's prosperity, this is a remarkable story of post-war resurgence, material progress and social stability. 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 about Japan.' The Japan Times 'So far there has been no reliable introduction to contemporary Japan that one could unhestitatingly recommend and confidently expect students to read. This book fills that gap.' Political Studies 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.