Political Economy of the Tokyo Olympics: Unrestrained Capital and Development without Sustainable Principles

The book "Tokyo 2020: The Olympics and Late-Stage Capitalism" analyzes the role of late-stage capitalism and political economy in shaping both contemporary Tokyo and the contemporary Olympic Games. It explores the scandal surrounding the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and the challenges faced in using the games as an economic stimulus. The contributors provide evidence-based policy analysis of the Olympic development in Tokyo, making it a valuable resource for scholars of contemporary Japan and the Olympics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 16 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into a comprehensive analysis of both contemporary Tokyo and the contemporary Olympic Games, placing a strong emphasis on the profound influence of late-stage capitalism and political economy in shaping both. The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, originally scheduled to take place in 2020, faced numerous challenges and controversies from the very beginning of the bidding process to the culmination of the games. This situation was further exacerbated by the unprecedented emergency postponement to 2021 due to the global outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, which led to widespread public debates and opinion polls advocating for the further postponement or even cancellation of the games in 2021.

In response to these challenges, the contributors to this volume have undertaken a thoughtful exploration of the Tokyo 2020 Games within the broader context of other modern games and the ongoing efforts to utilize these mega-events as economic stimuli. Through meticulous evidence-based policy analysis, they unveil the realities of the Olympic development in Tokyo, shedding light on the complex interplay between politics, economics, and sports.

This book holds immense value for scholars and researchers interested in contemporary Japan, as well as in the broader realm of the Olympics and other mega-events. It provides a rich and insightful perspective, offering valuable insights into the social, economic, and political dimensions of these global phenomena. By examining the Tokyo 2020 Games through the lens of late-stage capitalism and political economy, the book sheds light on the intricate mechanisms that drive these events and their impact on communities, athletes, and the global stage.

The contributors to this volume have assembled a diverse group of experts, including scholars, policymakers, and activists, who bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the table. Their contributions are organized into four compelling chapters, each exploring different aspects of the Tokyo 2020 Games and their broader implications.

Chapter 1, titled "The Political Economy of the Tokyo 2020 Games," provides a comprehensive overview of the historical and political context in which the games were planned and executed. The authors examine the role of late-stage capitalism, neoliberalism, and globalization in shaping the Olympic development in Tokyo, highlighting the ways in which these forces have contributed to the commodification of sports and the prioritization of economic growth over social and environmental concerns.

Chapter 2, titled "The Urban Transformation of Tokyo for the Games," delves into the physical and social changes that took place in Tokyo as a result of the Olympic preparations. The authors explore the impact of the construction of new infrastructure, the displacement of residents, and the changes in urban planning and design on the city's residents and communities. They also examine the ways in which these developments have contributed to the gentrification of certain areas and the marginalization of others.

Chapter 3, titled "The Social and Cultural Dimensions of the Tokyo 2020 Games," focuses on the social and cultural aspects of the games. The authors examine the ways in which the games have impacted local communities, athletes, and spectators, highlighting the potential for both positive and negative outcomes. They also explore the challenges faced by marginalized groups, such as women, minorities, and the disabled, and the efforts made to address these issues.

Chapter 4, titled "The Legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Games," examines the long-term impacts of the games on Tokyo and the broader Olympic movement. The authors explore the potential for the games to contribute to sustainable development, social inclusion, and cultural exchange, as well as the challenges and risks associated with these goals. They also examine the ways in which the games may shape the future of urban planning, infrastructure development, and sports governance.

In conclusion, this book offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of both contemporary Tokyo and the contemporary Olympic Games. By placing a strong emphasis on the role of late-stage capitalism and political economy in shaping these events, the contributors to this volume provide a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and activists alike. The book sheds light on the complex dynamics that drive these global phenomena, offering valuable insights into the social, economic, and political dimensions of these mega-events. Through its comprehensive analysis and engaging writing style, this book will appeal to a wide range of readers interested in contemporary Japan, sports, and global politics.

Weight: 374g
Dimension: 240 x 162 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032352176