Social Inequality in Post-Growth Japan: Transformation During Economic and Demographic Stagnation

Abstract

Are social inequalities prevalent in contemporary Japanese society, which, since the 1990s, is believed to be characterized by economic and demographic non-growth? If inequalities are indeed prevalent, are they growing? What comprehensive ‘big picture’ can we paint on this topic? Up to the early 1990s, Japan was regarded as a ‘good student’ for having attained consistent economic growth and equality. However, the collapse of the price bubble is believed to have given rise to a ‘gap (unequal) society’ (kakusa shakai 格差社会). Is this assessment, which posits a causal link between the collapse of the price bubble and the emergence of what is known as a ‘gap society’, accurate? This book is an attempt to answer the above questions. To this end, the book editors focus on the following dimensions of Japanese society: employment, welfare policies, education, urban-rural relationships, and the growing number of immigrants. The book is thematically divided into 19 chapters based on these dimensions, presented in eight parts. Public policy appears to be the book’s core thematic concern; overall, it offers balanced perspectives and arguments.

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