Japan as a ‘normal country’?:A nation in search of its place in the world

Yoshihide Soeya, Masayuki Tadokoro, David A. Welch

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

35 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

For decades, Japan’s foreign policy has been seen by both internal and external observers as abnormal in relation to its size and level of sophistication. Japan as a ‘Normal Country’? is a thematic and geographically comparative discussion of the unique limitations of Japanese foreign and defence policy. The contributors reappraise the definition of normality and ask whether Japan is indeed abnormal, what it would mean to become normal, and whether the country can—or should—become so. Identifying constraints such as an inflexible constitution, inherent antimilitarism, and its position as a U.S. security client, Japan as a ‘Normal Country’? goes on to analyse factors that could make Japan a more effective regional and global player. These essays ultimately consider how Japan could leverage its considerable human, cultural, technological, and financial capital to benefit both its citizens and the world.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationJapan as a 'Normal Country'?
Subtitle of host publicationA Nation in Search of its Place in the World
PublisherUniversity of Toronto Press
Pages1-211
Number of pages211
ISBN (Electronic)9781442694231
ISBN (Print)9781442611405
Publication statusPublished - 2011 Jan 1

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Social Sciences

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