Course Overview

This course focuses on the history of Japan’s domestic politics and foreign relations from the end of the Second World War till the end of 1970s.

Learning Achievement

1. To nurture a flexible and comprehensive understanding about the historical dynamics of postwar Japan’s foreign and security policymaking.
2. To improve understanding about the role of domestic politics in the formation of Japan’s foreign policy.

Competence

The roles played by both structural (international/domestic political systems,etc.) and non-structural factors in giving shape to Japan’s policies will be taken into account. Active class participation is strongly encouraged.

1. General-propose competence: critical and creative thinking skills, broad perspective and internationalism.
2. Special competence: understanding international relations, analytical skills on international relations.

Course prerequisites

No particular prerequisites, though basic knowledge on prewar international history may be helpful.

Grading Philosophy

Attendance (20%), Class participation (20%), Final exam or Term paper (60%)

Course schedule

Introduction
Two Governments, One Country ？ Japan under the Allied Occupation
Fighting for Peace and Security
From the “1955 Regime” to the “1960 Regime”
Japan’s Comeback to International Political Life
The LDP and Japanese Politics during the Days of Economic Growth
The Economic Superpowers’ Diplomacy
Political Pluralism and Party Politics in the 1970s
Japanese Foreign Policymaking under Detente
Conclusion

Course type

Lectures

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Other information

Site for Inquiry

Link to the syllabus provided by the university