Japan's Quiet Transformation

Social Change and Civil Society in 21st Century Japan

Jeff Kingston author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:19th Aug '04

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Japan's Quiet Transformation cover

The 1990s have been termed as 'Japan's lost decade' to describe how the phenomenal growth in the Japanese economy ground to a halt and the country was crippled by enormous and ongoing political, economic and social problems. In responding to these unprecedented difficulties, wide-ranging reforms have been adopted including NPO, information disclosure and judicial reform legislation. Controversially, this book argues that such reforms are creating a more robust civil society and demonstrate that Japan is far more dynamic than is generally recognized.

'In this stimulating book Jeff Kingston meticulously examines many of the social, political and economic changes that have buffeted Japan for more than a decade and are drastically reshaping its fundamental nature. This insightful and excellently researched work attempts to make sense out of a host of diverse trends and predict their possible impact on the shape of Japan to come.' - J. Sean Curtin,www.glocom.org

'Many historical accounts of postwar Japan conclude before the period
addressed in this book. Thus Kingston's study should be particularly
welcomed by individuals who want to understand today's Japan, but
through a historical perspective. The fact that Kingston happens to be a
rare example of an academician who can combine sound analysis with
entertaining prose makes it possible to recommend this book to just
about anyone interested in contemporary Japan.'
- International Herald Tribune/Asahi

'Japan's Quiet Transformation is one of the most important books about Japan published in recent years, a book that is unsparing in its critique of contemporary Japan's many ills but that goes well beyond the now standard doom-laden portrayal of a nation headed for the abyss.' - Japan Foundation Newsletter

'For all those interested in the 'futuristic' trends for Japan, Jeff Kingston has provided a fine overview. Yet there is something here too for all who wish to observe the reinvention of Japan.' - Contemporary Review

'Quiet Transformation is a compelling and entertaining read that stands to become a classic on Japan's largely ignored attempts to turn itself around at the turn of the 21st century...' - Japan Foundation Newsletter


'Kingston has provided a well researched and also readable synthesis of developments in Japan since the collapse of the bubble economy in 1989....The fact that Kingston happens to be a rare example of an academician who can combine sound analysis with entertaining prose makes it possible to recommend this book to just about anyone interested in contemporary Japan.' - International Herald Tribune

ISBN: 9780415274838

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 710g

384 pages