Social Change in Japan, 1989-2019: Social Status, Social Consciousness, Attitudes and Values

This book examines how the population of Japan has experienced and processed three decades of rapid social change, highlighting social attitudes and values towards work, gender roles, family, welfare, and politics. It explores social consciousness and concludes that although many Japanese people identify as middle class, their reasons for doing so have changed over time, with a more realistic view of their social status prevailing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 16 October 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the profound transformations that Japan has undergone over the past three decades, navigating a remarkable journey from a high-growth, egalitarian economy in the 1980s to a stagnant and demographically shrinking gap society in the 2010s. Through extensive survey data, it offers a comprehensive examination of how the Japanese population has experienced and processed these rapid social changes. The book explores various social attitudes and values, shedding light on how they have evolved in response to these seismic shifts. It highlights specific subgroups that have been particularly impacted by these societal transformations, emphasizing their unique challenges and experiences.

Furthermore, the book delves into the realm of social consciousness, unraveling the evolving perspectives of the Japanese people regarding their social status. It reveals that while many individuals still identify as middle class, their motivations for this classification have undergone a significant transformation over time. The optimistic view of upward mobility that prevailed in the 1980s has given way to a more realistic understanding of one's social position, reflecting the changing realities of the Japanese society.

This insightful exploration of social change in Japan provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics shaping modern society. It sheds light on the evolving attitudes, values, and social consciousness of the Japanese population, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities they face in this rapidly evolving world. By examining the past and present, this book contributes to our understanding of the broader social trends and transformations that are shaping our global landscape.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367353773