110-447 Social Problems in Japan

Formerly available as 110-121. Students who have completed 110-121 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Fifty points of study in Japanese or Asian studies for third year. Admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours in Japanese or Asian studies for fourth year.

This subject aims to prepare students for more specialised studies in Japanese society and culture. The subject offers interdisciplinary views of the political, economic, religious and cultural ideologies which foster inequality between different social groups in Japan. Students should become aware of the heterogeneous aspects of Japanese society as well as the public and private institutions that deal with these issues, such as ethnicity, caste and disability. The subject will also include an examination of the relevant institutions (such as the family registry system, employment protection laws, and social welfare programs) which promote or attack prejudice against heterogeneous social groups.

Written work totalling 4000 words for 3rd year, 5000 words for 4th year and masters students, and class participation. Masters students will be required to do some extra background reading and to present their written work in a more research-oriented mode. Students are required to attend a minimum of 70% of all seminars in order to be eligible to submit the final essay.

• Suzuki & Oiwa, The Japan We Never Knew. Allen & Unwin, 1996.
• M Weiner (ed), Japan's Minorities. Routledge, 1997.