Introduction to Contemporary Japanese Society

This course examines contemporary Japanese society from multiple perspectives.

Topics include class structure, family and gender, ethnicity, education, and media. By analyzing these themes, the course clarifies key features of each aspect of Japanese society.

Through this process, students will develop the knowledge and perspective necessary to critically reconsider stereotypes about Japan and understand Japan’s position in the world.

Area Studies, Intercultural Understanding, Minority Studies, Sociology of Education, Gender Studies, Media

1. Orientation
2. Japan’s Soft Power
3. What Does It Mean to Study Japan?
4. Demographic Changes
5. Social Class
6. Family
7. Sexual Diversity
8. Minorities
9. Japan as an Immigration Society
10. Education: Egalitarianism and Liberalization
11. Children with Foreign Backgrounds and Schooling
12. Media
13. Group Presentations
14. Group Presentations
15. Group Presentations
16. Summary and Course Evaluation

Syllabus (Japanese site only)