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Research Areas & Themes ( 2011 ): Politics

Developing political appointee candidates

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Project Overview

Continuing from 2009 and 2010, we will continue to carry out PAC (political appointee candidates) Dojo policy simulations in order to foster the skill of PACs. This consists of three parts, a "diplomatic game" that simulates conflict resolutions, an "economic game" that simulates a financial or economic crisis, and a "domestic crisis management game" with a simulated act of domestic terrorism. In addition, during the current fiscal year we will further promote the skills of PACs through 1) a training program for PACs in Washington D.C., 2) roundtables and networking events for PACs and Diet-related personnel, and 3) roundtables and networking events for PACs and incumbent government bureaucrats.

Research on the nature and dynamics of political appointee systems

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Project Overview

We will continue to study the nature and dynamics of the political appointment in Japan. We will research the nature of the political appointee system in Japan by examining its strengths, weaknesses, and operational problems. If necessary, we will offer concrete policy proposals and disseminate them widely through publications.

Research on Japan-US-China relations

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Project Overview

I will approach experts with close relationships to the US Democratic or Republican parties, academics, and governmental officials in order to exchange views regarding Japan-US-China relations. Ordinarily, Japanese come in contact mainly with people involved with Japan. However, US Asia policy is centered on US-China relations. I will network primarily with experts on US-China relations with the aim of considering Japan-US-China relations from a broader perspective.

Corporations and international relations

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Project Overview

We will research the role that corporate activities play in international relations during an era of globalization and changes that occur in international relations.
In recent international relations theory, corporations, along with NGOs, are considered non-state actors that influence international relations. Unlike the case with NGOs, however, research on corporations as actors in the international community remains scarce. In terms of economics, there is abundant research on the influence on international relations of globalization, the advance of interdependence, the international movement of capital, and so on. Corporations obviously play an important role in these phenomena, but they are only studied indirectly. One theme of this research will be clarifying whether that is sufficient.

Research on Japan-China relations from a long-term perspective

Project Leader
Project Overview

China's economic development today is remarkable. Politically as well, it receives worldwide attention along with the USA as part of the G-2. On the other hand, Japan, struggling with low growth and facing numerous social problems, receives a great deal of stimulus from China with its continued high growth. China's presence has become increasingly important to Japan.
Because China's nature differs from those of Japan or the USA, there are many issues that Japan must consider. China's communist system plays an important role in achieving economic growth, but will it change in the future? As China grows and its relations with the rest of the world deepen, its communist system may be affected and domestic dissatisfaction is growing. This is a problem from a medium- to long-term perspective. This research will not carry out observation or analysis from a short-term perspective.
The three research themes are politics (especially one-party rule), economics (especially the strengthening of state capitalism), and military foreign policy (especially increased military power and the inclination to project it on the high seas). We will compile research results in each area.
In order to advance this research, a research comprising about 10 members will meet regularly.

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