Contemporary Japan

By Duncan McCargo

Book Overview

What have been the fundamental shifts in Japanese society over the past decade? And what has remained the same? What will the country look like in five years from now?

Introducing you to all aspects of Japanese society, culture, politics, economy, geography and history, this book guides you through the country's enduring features, recent trends and the most interesting areas of analysis:

- Gender roles, gender fluidity and LBGTQ identities: including coverage of singledom and the changing nature of family life
- Changing demographics: considering the impact of increased immigration from China and Vietnam coupled with a falling birth rate and declining indigenous population
- The current state of Japanese politics: analysing the dominance of the LDP and the legacy of Shinzo Abe
- Reflections on contemporary Japanese culture: discussing the politics of education, the role of the media and the online sphere, new social movements, environmentalism
- Trends in Japan's external relations: looking at the LDP's increased defence spending, the continued rise of China and Russia's war in Ukraine.

With case studies, the latest data and lively debate, Contemporary Japan is essential reading if you are studying any aspect of Japanese sociology, politics, history, culture or language, or if you are simply interested in learning more about the country.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1350419826
• ISBN13: 9781350419827
• Release Date: November 2025
• Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.1" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

A Valuable Text on Japan

Contemporary Japan by Duncan McCargo is an exceptionally well written and succinct overview of Japan today perfectly suited for use in a course on Asian politics. The book is particularly helpful in that it begins with an overview of the various perspectives and approaches which characterize the debate among Japanese experts today. In the following chapters McCargo refers often to the differing viewpoints of particular writers and scholars. McCargo also provides a concise historical overview--something often omitted by other texts. The book does not provide any detailed analysis of the current economic crisis. Nevertheless, Contemporary Japan is recommended for its clarity and good writing.

How is Japan now, and why - A marvellous book

This book is just a marvellous description and explanation about how Japan is nowadays, and why it is like that. It addresses all the key points and gives all the hints for understanding Japan. I am living in Japan and needed some gide for understanding Japanese politics, society, working environment, culture, and others... I found that in this book. It contains many useful and updated information, but not in excess. Just marvellous! It is a pleasure to read it. Handy and easy.