Description
Book SynopsisThe second edition of this comprehensive study of recent Japanese history now includes the author's expert assessment of the effects of the earthquake and tsunami, including the political and environmental consequences of the Fukushima reactor meltdown.
Trade ReviewPraise for the previous edition "One of the foremost foreign writers on modern Japan, Kingston provides another wide-ranging analysis of interest to all of those with a stake in the nation's future." The Japan Times
"Kingston's discussion of the changes Japan faces in the 21st century is among the most comprehensive and accessible treatments of Japan's recent history available." Choice
Table of ContentsMap vii
Series Editor’s Preface viii
Acknowledgments x
Part I Introduction 1
1 Transformations After World War II 3
2 The Lost Decade 23
Part II Risk and Consequences 39
3 Defusing the Demographic Time Bomb 41
4 Families at Risk 60
5 Jobs at Risk 77
Part III Politics and Consequences 93
6 Contemporary Politics 95
7 Security and the Peace Constitution 115
8 Immigration 136
9 War Memory and Responsibility 154
Part IV Environment and Disaster 175
10 Environmental Issues 177
11 3/11: Earthquake, Tsunami, and Nuclear Crisis 198
Part V Institutions at Risk 221
12 The Imperial Family 223
13 Yakuza 241
Part VI Postscript 261
14 Prospects 263
Glossary 270
Notes 278
Further Reading 293
Index 302
