JST4110

Advanced studies in Japanese society

Proposed to be offered next in 1999

Ross Mouer and Wendy Smith

12 points
* 2 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton

Objectives Students taking this subject should acquire a basic understanding of Japanese society and its main institutions while also becoming familiar with basic resources for obtaining information on contemporary Japan.

Synopsis The subject provides a basic introduction to Japanese society. After considering some of the most powerful stereotypes of Japanese society, the subject provides a comprehensive framework for conceptualising Japanese society. It then considers basic institutions (the education system, political culture, the family, and the organisation of work). The subject is capped with a brief introduction to a number of social issues confronting contemporary Japan. Reference is made throughout to major themes dominating intellectual discussion in postwar Japan: democratisation, modernisation, postmodernism, internationalisation and nationalism. Students who have not studied this subject at the undergraduate level are required to attend two additional hours of undergraduate lectures per week.

Assessment Book review (2000 words): 25%
* Paper (5000 words): 50%
* Seminar presentation (2000 words): 25%