Asian Studies: Contemporary Japanese Society

<p>Curious about Japan beyond anime and sushi? Discover what really shapes Japanese society today - from politics and pop culture to robots and ageing. </p><p>Japan is a country of contrasts: high-tech robots alongside shrinking rural towns, global pop culture icons alongside centuries-old traditions. In this course, you will explore the key issues shaping Japanese society today.<br/><br/>We focus on Japan after the Cold War, with special attention to the years following the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident. You will study challenges such as an ageing population, low birth rates and gender inequality, and see how these are linked to questions of immigration, family and technology. The course also examines Japan’s domestic political leadership and its role on the world stage, particularly in East Asia.</p><p>Throughout the course, you will move beyond the stereotypes to ask deeper questions. How is Japan changing? How do history and politics shape daily life? And what can Japan’s experiences tell us about the future of other societies?<br/><br/>By the end, you will have a clear understanding of the main issues in present-day Japan and stronger skills in critical thinking, discussion and academic writing. </p>