Description
Book SynopsisThis book provides the reader with the basis for a theoretical understanding of public-sector finance in general - and more specifically, a comprehensive, policy-oriented application of that understanding to Japanese public finance.
Particular emphasis is placed upon developing tools which can be used both theoretically and empirically to clarify essential economic concerns in Japan's public sector. These include the macroeconomic incidence of fiscal decentralization, dependence on government bonds for covering fiscal deficits, and social security reform. In analyzing Japan's underperforming public sector, the authors develop and recommend policy solutions aimed at achieving Japan's growth potential, improving the quality of the public sector, and strengthening the sector's contribution to the Japanese economy.
Guiding the reader toward an overall understanding of public-sector reforms, decentralization and fiscal policy in Japan, this book will strongly appeal to academics, students and researchers with an interest in modern public finance theory and macroeconomic analysis.
Trade Review'. . . covers valuable ground in exploring the complex world of Japan's public finances and public sector operations.' -- Albrecht Rothacher, ASIEN - German Journal for Politics, Economy and Culture
Table of ContentsContents: Preface 1. Introduction 2. History of Postwar Public Finance 3. The Central Government Budget and Fiscal Policy 4. Aging and Intergenerational Conflict: Social Security Benefits and Burdens 5. Restoring Fiscal Balance in an Aging Japan 6. The Tax System and Its Reform 7. Local Public Finance and the Soft-budget Problem 8. Decentralization Reform 9. The Management and Sustainability of Government Debt 10. Reform of the Public Sector References Index
