Contemporary Japan

Japan is one of the world''s most important societies, yet remains one of the least understood. This book is designed to fill the gap for a concise but thought-provoking introduction to all aspects of the country''s political, economic and social life set in a clear historical context.The author''s starting-point is that the study of Japan is ''contested territory'' where even such apparently simple questions such as ''Who is in charge?'' spark considerable disagreement and controversy among experts. To understand contemporary Japan, Duncan McCargo argues, it is necessary to get to grips with a range of different perspectives on Japanese political and social structures. Integrating contrasting perspectives throughout, the core chapters of the book focus on the changing economy, government and politics, society and culture, and Japan''s place in the wider world.The new third edition of this popular text has been fully revised and updated throughout to cover key developments such as the historic end of LDP rule in 2009. This accessible and lively book will be essential reading both for students and general readers who want to know more about this important country.>

About the author

Duncan McCargo is Professor in the School of Politics and International Studies, University of Leeds, UK.

Summary

Fully revised and updated, this widely-praised introductory text explores Japan through the prism of three alternative perspectives: Mainstream, revisionist and culturalist. Beginning with the notion of Japan as a 'contested territory' the book focuses on debates about the real nature of Japan's successes and shortcomings.

Product details

• Authors: Duncan McCargo, McCargo Duncan
• Publisher: Macmillan
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 19.10.2012
• EAN: 9780230248694
• ISBN: 978-0-230-24869-4
• No. of pages: 272
• Dimensions: 140 mm x 218 mm x 17 mm
• Series: Contemporary States and Societies; Contemporary States and Societies Series; Contemporary States and Societ; Contemporary States and Societies; Contemporary States and Societies Series; Contemporary States and Societ; Bloomsbury 3PL
• Subjects: Education and learning > Teaching preparation > Vocational needs; Social sciences, law, business > Political science > Political science and political education; B, Asia, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Regional Studies, POLITICAL SCIENCE / World / Asian, HISTORY / Asia / Japan, Social Sciences, 21st century, c 2000 to c 2100, Comparative Politics, Politics and government, Regional / International studies, Asia—Politics and government, Asian Politics