The Japanese State and Civil Society in Transformation, 1970-2006

The project will analyze the transformation of the Japanese state between 1970 and 2006. In the process it will clarify the state formation that is being demolished; the Kakuei State, after Prime Minister Tanaka Kakuei, who held office from 1972-1975. It will probe the nature of what is being built in its stead, the Koizumi State after Prime Minister Koizumi, 2001-2006. After five years of Koizumi s reforms, the fundamental qualities of both old and new models are becoming clearer. This project will pay special attention to the implications of both models for Japan s politics, society, economy and identity, and for its posture in the region and the world.