Japan Today

Japan Today is an introductory survey of twentieth-century Japan. It examines the development of Japan's post-war 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 reassess its earlier diffident approaches to foreign and defence policies. In addition to presenting political, economic and social analyses of 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.