How does Japan fit into the modern world? What are the commonalities, contrasts, and connections among Japan and other societies and states? By exploring how various historical processes and developments - such as industrialization, state-building, nationalism, neo-imperialism, new political institutions and legitimacy, capitalism, economic class-played out in Japan, a number of issues are illuminated: what are the traits of "modernity"? Are there meta-narratives of historical change? Is all history only local or regional? In what ways is the world "global"? We will explore these questions by approaching the pertinent issues from three angles: (1) the modern history of Japan; (2) comparing Japan to other geographical/cultural areas; and (3) adopting major themes which will act as conceptual prisms. Graduate-level requirements include a double-length research paper, meeting with the instructor six times for additional instruction, and conducting one lecture.
Units
3
Grade Basis
Regular Grades