This course comprehensively evaluates the institutions, processes and practices of Japanese politics. It identifies the major actors in the political system, the nature of their interaction and the sources of their power. It seeks to answer some of the most vexed questions in the study of Japanese politics: Is Japan a democracy? Who rules in Japan, the politicians or the bureaucrats? What are the causes of political corruption and money politics? Why is Japan a one-party predominant system? Why does Japan not play a greater role in the international arena? Other themes include the impact of electoral reform, Japan's weak Opposition and the role of the government in the economy. Whilst highlighting the more distinctive aspects of Japanese politics, the broader comparative perspective is not ignored, with references to democratic theory, pluralist, elitist and corporatist models of interest groups, electoral theory and others.

Tutorial contribution (attendance, participation and presentation) (30%), book review (10%), research essay (30%) and final exam (30%).

8 University courses including two ASIA coded courses (12 units) or two POLS coded courses or with permission of the coordinator.

Curtis, Gerald L., The Logic of Japanese Politics, New York: Columbia University Press, 1999.

Stockwin, J.A.A. Governing Japan, Oxford: Blackwell Publishers, 1988.

Reading list to be provided in the course outline.