Japanese Politics and Foreign Policy

4 Credits.

An introduction to modern Japanese politics, foreign and defense policy, and government institutions. After a general introduction to Japanese political development since 1868, the course undertakes more detailed analysis of current political structures and processes as well as of domestic and foreign policy issues, including Japan’s relations with China, Korea, and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Emphasizes understanding how domestic politics, economic concerns, and external factors influence Japanese policymaking and the functioning of the Japanese political system.