Science for Governing Japan's Population

Japan is known for its aging population, and this book explores the role of population experts in the government's efforts to manage it. It argues that the formation of population sciences in modern Japan had a symbiotic relationship with the development of the neologism "population" and the transformation of Japan into a modern sovereign power.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Japan, renowned for its rapidly aging population, has taken a pioneering approach in addressing this challenge by leveraging scientific advancements. In the book Science for Governing Japan's Population, the author delves into the underlying reasons why these demographic trends have been perceived as problematic. It explores the significant roles played by population experts in bringing these issues to the forefront of government attention. Aya Homei conducts a comprehensive examination of the medico-scientific fields that emerged in Japan during the 1860s to the 1960s, focusing on the contributions of these experts in the government's efforts to manage its population.

Homei argues that the formation of population sciences in modern Japan was intricately linked to the emergence of the term "population" (jinkō) and the nation's transition into a modern sovereign power. By tracing this historical trajectory, Homei challenges prevailing assumptions about the relationships between population, sovereignty, and science.

This book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics between population, governance, and scientific advancements, shedding light on Japan's unique approach to managing its aging population. It is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities posed by population dynamics in contemporary societies.

ISBN-13: 9781009186834