Science, Technology and Society in Contemporary Japan (Contemporary Japanese Society) - Hardcover

Low, Morris; Nakayama, Shigeru; Yoshioka, Hitoshi

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521652820 ISBN 13: 9780521652827

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1999

Synopsis

The challenge of the Asian economic crisis in the late 1990s has placed pressure on the Japanese economy to change, causing the nation to turn to science and technology to safeguard its future. In this book, a team of three leading scholars in the field explore the dynamic relationship among science, technology and Japanese society, examining how it has contributed to economic growth and national well-being. The book includes several case studies in which competing views are presented, creating a synthesis of recent debates. Throughout, readers gain insight into the complex interplay between different values and interests, knowledge, and power. Chapters discuss government policy, the private sector and community responses; computers and communication; the automobile industry, the aerospace industry and quality control; the environment; consumer electronics; medical care; and the role of gender. This is an ideal introductory text for students in the sociology of science and technology, the history and philosophy of science, and Japanese studies. Up-to-date research and case studies make this an invaluable resource for readers interested in the nature of science and technology in the twenty-first century.

About this title

Book Description:

This book explores the relationship between science, technology and Japanese society, examining how it has contributed to economic growth and national well-being. It presents a synthesis of recent debates by juxtaposing competing views about the role and direction of science, technology and medical care in Japan. Topics discussed include government policy, the private sector, communication, quality control, the aerospace industry, the environment, medical care, and the role of gender. This is an ideal introductory text for students.

Review:

"...the book clearly has value as an introductory work for those new to the extant literature on Japanese political economy, business, and related subject areas and, in addition, to specialists who want a handy reference work when dealing with S&T-related topics." Journal of Japanese Studies

"The book is completely accessible for readers who are not specialists on Japan but are interested in science, technology, and society generally.... the book succeeds as an introduction to the protagonists and their points of view in Japanese S&T." Isis

"The authors of this provocative and knowledgeable book have succeeded admirably in their aim of raising the level of analysis of Japanese science and technology." Technology and Culture

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 0521652820
• ISBN 13: 9780521652827
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 240