Overview

Japan, anchored by its traditions, transformed by American post-war Occupation, and globally recognized for its technological innovations, manufacturing prowess, and pop culture, faces powerful challenges from within and without. How Japan chooses to handle these problems and opportunities will determine its future for decades to come.            In this book, Jeff Kingston – one of the most lucid analysts of Japan today – takes readers on a fascinating journey through this country's contemporary history, exploring the key developments and forces, both at home and abroad, that are shaping Japan in the twenty-first century. Whether Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s transformative agenda of “Abenomics” and “proactive pacifism” toward a rising China and a belligerent North Korea can set Japan on the path to greater prosperity and security remains to be seen. But having won a third term as president of the Liberal Democratic Party in 2018, Japan’s ongoing transformation is very much in Abe’s hands.

Full Product Details

9781509525447

Table of Contents

Reviews

[CATALOGUE ONLY] Jeff Kingston's crisp and illuminating history of contemporary Japan is a must-read. Striking a delicate balance between broad geopolitical context and in-depth scrutiny of key issues and events since 1945, it is both informative and highly enjoyable. Yoshio Sugimoto, La Trobe University

Jeff Kingston's Japan cuts through much modern hype and manifold misconceptions to show in a cool but lively way how the country's current political, social, strategic and economic situation has evolved in the seven postwar decades and the real state of Japan today. There is no better way to understand where this always intriguing, vitally important and often pioneering country is heading than to read Kingston. Bill Emmott

Author Information

Jeff Kingston is Professor of History and Director of Asian Studies at Temple University Japan.

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