Japanese Media and the Intelligentsia after Fukushima: Disaster Culture

The book investigates how the Fukushima nuclear disaster has changed public discourse and social narratives in Japan, leading to a shift in public opinion against nuclear power and a renewed focus on alternative energy and climate change. It also examines the hidden power structural dynamics that affect Japan's politics, bureaucracy, industry, academia, and media.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The impact of a catastrophic disaster on public discourse and social narratives is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires careful examination. This book is a groundbreaking exploration of how Japanese newspapers, television, documentary films, independent journalists, scientists, and intellectuals from the humanities and social sciences have responded to the Fukushima nuclear disaster over the past decade.

In Japan, nuclear power had consistently enjoyed more than 70% support in opinion polls, reflecting the nation's reliance on this energy source for its electricity needs. However, the Fukushima disaster of 2011 marked a significant shift in public opinion, with the majority of the population now advocating for an end to nuclear power in Japan. This shift has led to the emergence of alternative energy and countermeasures against climate change as hot-button issues in public discourse.

Furthermore, topics that were previously left undiscussed have become common talking points among journalists and intellectuals. These include concealed power structural dynamics that operate within Japan's politics, bureaucracy, industry, academia, and media; Japan's peculiar and strong support for nuclear power, despite being a nation subjected to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and its latent ability to develop nuclear weapons by utilizing the plutonium generated by its power plants; and Japan's dependence on the US nuclear umbrella. These discussions have often evolved into macro-level controversies over "Japan and its 'modernity.'"

In this book, Hidaka undertakes a critical evaluation of how the Fukushima disaster has shaken hegemonic public discourse and compares it to the impact of previous moments of "disaster culture" in modern Japanese history, such as The Great Kanto Earthquake and the Pacific War. By doing so, the author offers vital insights into contemporary Japanese culture and social discourse for students and scholars alike.

The response to the Fukushima disaster has been characterized by a range of reactions, including shock, fear, and disbelief. Newspapers, television, and documentary films have played a crucial role in conveying information about the disaster and its aftermath to the public. Independent journalists have also been instrumental in uncovering facts and providing critical analysis of the government's response. Scientists and intellectuals from the humanities and social sciences have contributed their expertise to understanding the scientific and social implications of the disaster.

One of the most significant impacts of the disaster has been the questioning of Japan's nuclear industry and its safety protocols. The disaster exposed the vulnerability of nuclear power plants to natural disasters and human error, leading to calls for stricter regulations and increased safety measures. The government has implemented a number of measures to address these concerns, including the establishment of a new nuclear safety agency and the implementation of safety standards for new nuclear power plants.

The disaster has also led to a reevaluation of Japan's energy policy and the role of nuclear power in meeting the nation's energy needs. While alternative energy sources such as solar and wind power have gained popularity, nuclear power remains a significant component of Japan's energy mix. However, there is growing concern about the long-term viability of nuclear power and the potential risks associated with it, including the disposal of radioactive waste and the risk of accidents.

In conclusion, the Fukushima disaster has had a profound impact on public discourse and social narratives in Japan. It has caused a shift in public opinion, led to the emergence of alternative energy and countermeasures against climate change as hot-button issues, and raised concerns about the safety and sustainability of nuclear power. This book provides valuable insights into how Japanese newspapers, television, documentary films, independent journalists, scientists, and intellectuals have responded to the disaster and its implications for contemporary Japanese culture and social discourse.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032101682