Japanese Politics

This course introduces students to the politics, political economy, and international relations of Japan. We will cover the role of political parties, the bureaucracy, and private actors; economic development and stagnation; relations with the United States and regional neighbors. The course places a particular emphasis on contemporary challenges facing Japan, including energy policy and climate change, demographic decline, Japan’s contributions to the liberal international order, and Japan’s response to geopolitical challenges, such as North Korea and the rise of China.