Exam 6: Japan

Policy coordination, coherence, and effectiveness are often problems associated with the policy process in Japan. First, explain the causes of these problems. Next, assess which of these you feel is the most important explanatory factor and why. Finally, assess to what extent these problems are systemic.

Which of the following statements about Japanese youth is CORRECT?

Relationships among Japan's central government ministries and agencies can be described as

The state has always played a major role in managing the Japanese economy as both a patron and a protector of domestic industry. First, citing specific examples, explain the kinds of policies the state has taken in this regard. Next, explain how this traditional role of the state is being challenged by globalization as well as the current on-going economic recession.

In comparison to their counterparts in other parliamentary democracies, Japan's prime ministers are often said to be weak leaders.  Describe the features of the Japanese political system which causes this.

Which of the following is NOT an element of Abenomics (the economic policies instituted by Prime Minister Abe Shinzo)?

Describe how the role of the Japanese Self-Defense Force has changed over the years.  What has caused these changes?  What factors might bring about further change?

Which of the following is NOT true regarding the status of women in Japan?

Which of the following statements about Japan's workers is INCORRECT?

Japan's trading partners, especially those in the West, have often argued that there are certain structural and behavior features of the country's private sector that lead to unfair trade practices. First, discuss the structural and behavioral features of the private sector of the Japanese economy that set it apart from its counterparts in most Western countries. Second, assess why critics may see these as leading to unfair trade practices. Finally, assess how Japan's continued integration into the global economy affected these features.