Japan's Administrative Elite

The government bureaucracy in Japan is a major player in society, but there is no comprehensive and up-to-date study of it in the English language. This book seeks to fill that gap by examining patterns of continuity and change, identifying similarities and differences between Japan and four other industrialized democracies, and assessing the implications of the Japanese model of public management. The Japanese model of public management contains both strengths and weaknesses, such as the stifling rigidity of a multiple track system and the enduring effects of culture over structure.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

The government bureaucracy plays a significant role in Japanese society, and understanding its workings is crucial to comprehend Japan's remarkable success in the global marketplace and its effective management of domestic affairs. Despite its pivotal importance, there is a lack of comprehensive and up-to-date studies of Japan's administrative elite in the English language. This book aims to fill that gap.

In his work, Koh explores patterns of continuity and change, identifies similarities and differences between Japan and four other industrialized democracies (the United States, Britain, France, and Germany), and assesses the implications of the Japanese model of public management. While many features of Japanese bureaucracy are found in Western democracies, the degree to which they manifest themselves in Japan is unparalleled. Koh demonstrates that the Japanese model of public management possesses both strengths and weaknesses. On the one hand, Japan's commitment to recruiting and promoting high-caliber administrative elites results in a rigid multiple track system that ensures a high level of expertise and professionalism. However, this system also creates a hierarchical structure with second-class citizens and demoralized non-career civil servants who bear a significant administrative burden.

The Japanese experience serves as a testament to the steep price of success and the enduring influence of culture over structure. It highlights the importance of considering both the advantages and disadvantages of different management models and the need to adapt them to the unique context of each country. This book contributes to our understanding of Japanese society and governance, and it will be valuable to scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in exploring the dynamics of modern government.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the study of Japanese government bureaucracy and its implications for other countries. By examining patterns of continuity and change, comparing Japan to other industrialized democracies, and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the Japanese model of public management, Koh offers insights into the complex dynamics of modern government and the challenges faced by policymakers and administrators worldwide.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 210 x 148 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520306431