Jeff Kingston Libros

The book offers a thorough comparative analysis of religious nationalism in globalized Asia, examining the interplay between religion, identity, and nationalism. Kingston presents diverse thematic case studies that highlight how religious sentiments shape expressions of nationalism, frequently leading to extreme and tragic outcomes. This exploration sheds light on the complexities of cultural and political dynamics in the region.

The book explores the ideological transformation in Japan during the latter half of the twentieth century, highlighting how institutional changes, economic growth, and political upheaval reshaped national perspectives. It delves into the tensions between established norms and evolving realities, illustrating how these factors influenced Japanese behavior and worldview during a pivotal era.

The book explores Japan's 'lost decade' of the 1990s, characterized by a halt in economic growth and significant political, economic, and social challenges. It highlights the wide-ranging reforms implemented during this period, such as NPO and judicial reforms, arguing that these changes are fostering a more resilient civil society. The author contends that Japan's response to its difficulties reveals a dynamic nation, challenging the common perception of stagnation during this era.

Japan, anchored by its traditions, transformed by American post-war Occupation, and globally recognized for its technological innovations, manufacturing prowess, and pop culture, faces powerful challenges from within and without. How Japan chooses to handle these problems and opportunities will determine its future for decades to come. In this book, Jeff Kingston – one of the most lucid analysts of Japan today – takes readers on a fascinating journey through this country's contemporary history, exploring the key developments and forces, both at home and abroad, that are shaping Japan in the twenty-first century. Whether Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s transformative agenda of “Abenomics” and “proactive pacifism” toward a rising China and a belligerent North Korea can set Japan on the path to greater prosperity and security remains to be seen. But having won a third term as president of the Liberal Democratic Party in 2018, Japan’s ongoing transformation is very much in Abe’s hands.

Contemporary Japan: History, Politics, and Social Change since the 1980s presents a comprehensive examination of the causes of the Japanese economic bubble in the late 1980s and the socio-political consequences of the recent financial collapse.Represents the only book to examine in depth the turmoil of Japan since Emperor Hirohito died in 1989, the Cold War ended, and the economy collapsed.Provides an assessment of Japan's dramatic political revolution of 2009.Analyzes how risk has increased in Japan, undermining the sense of security and causing greater disparities in society.Assesses Japan's record on the environment, the consequences of neo-liberal reforms, immigration policies, the aging society, the US alliance, the Imperial family, and the 'yakuza' criminal gangs.Selected as a 2011 Outstanding Academic Title by CHOICE.

The second edition of this comprehensive study of recent Japanese history now includes the author's expert assessment of the effects of the earthquake and tsunami, including the political and environmental consequences of the Fukushima reactor meltdown.

The book offers an updated analysis of Japan's significant transformations from 1945 to 2020, focusing on pivotal events such as the 3.11 natural and nuclear disasters, Emperor Akihito's historic abdication, and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's political legacies. It also discusses the cultural impact of the 2019 World Cup and the unprecedented postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to the Covid-19 pandemic, providing a comprehensive overview of Japan's recent history and challenges.

Using a comparative, interdisciplinary approach, Nationalism in Asia analyzes currents of nationalism in five contemporary Asian societies: China, India, Indonesia, Japan, and South Korea.