Saturday, April 23, 2005
A Long History-The Anti-Japanese Demonstrations in China
Very good overview of the history behind the downturn in Japan-China-Korea relations. Fairly evaluates the many parts of the picture, such as ultranationalism among Japanese leaders while avoidoing taking the side of ill-infomed students in China. It also notes that nationalism amongst the populace in Japan is relatively low (although we see a great deal of it from the media and the government in my view). Notes too that the TSUKURUKAI text is hardly used at all, though we should note that all publishers, mainly for economic reasons, have moved their books to the right as well. Finally, implicates Japan in the U.S. military policy, which sheds light on why many people (inlcuding progressives in Japan) are really opposed to Japan having a seat on the Security Council--Japan only props up the United States, so why (is the question that comes to me) should Japan having a seat result in a fairer, more balanced Security Council?
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Race and Ethnicity in Japan: Two stories
An interesting look at the various groups which are or have been identified as minorities in the Japanese socio-cultural landscape plus an examinaton of the treatment given one Korean resident attempting to fight institutional discrimination.
Political and Cultural Perspectives on Japans Insider Minorities
Korean national blocked from promotion by Tokyo government vows to fight on
