The Japan Considered Podcast

February 18, 2009, Volume 05, Number 06 Click here for a transcript of today's program Welcome today from the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. At Edisto Beach State Park, South Carolina. Back at site # 18 again, and enjoying the view. What a great place to produce a podcast! You can see more of Edisto Beach at: http://mobilestudiotravels.blogspot.com/ Today we'll focus on the problems of Japan's political party system at the national level. Really, the "trials of Taro," or, more politely, the challenges facing Prime Minister Aso, are only a manifestation of that more basic problem. As presently configured, Japan's national political party system has proven incapable of recruiting effective, competent central political executives. And Japan overall is paying the price. I suggest that this situation can't last forever. That we're likely to see the beginnings of fundamental change in the party system during the next general election. Please continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program directly to me at [email protected]. I appreciate them.

February 06, 2009, Volume 05, Number 05 Click here for the audio file of today's program Click here for a transcript of today's program Thanks for dropping by again today, to you long-time listeners. And a hearty South Carolina welcome to those of you who have found us for the first time. Each week, or most weeks, anyway, on this program we consider developments in the news concerning Japan's domestic politics and/or the formulation and implementation of foreign policies. This week we consider two recent international developments. Japan's recent dispute with Russia over the terms of access to one of the Northern Territories islands, Kunashiri. And the significance of what appears to be North Korea's latest missile diplomacy initiative. Following that we return to the even more turbulent environment of Japan's domestic politics. With brief consideration of the role prefectural and local individuals and organizations may play in sorting out the current mess in Nagatacho. Please continue to send your comments and suggestions to me at [email protected]. We've had a big increase in the volume of e-mailed comments recently. Thanks for the effort. They all help to improve the program.

January 23, 2009; Volume 05, Number 04 Click here for a transcript of today's program It's Friday again, and thanks for dropping by. Another excellent interview for this program. Timely, and full of useful information. Dr. Ed Lincoln, Director of the Stern School of Business's Japan-U.S. Center at New York University, agreed to come on to help us understand how bilateral economic relations between Japan and the United States are likely to change under the incoming Obama Administration. Ed is far closer to the new Administration and the people likely to assume senior policy posts than am I. And, his political and econo-political perspective is quite different than mine. So his comments at this time are especially valuable. It's another longer program than we usually have. But I'm sure you'll agree it's well worth the extra time.

January 20, 2009; Volume 05, Number 03 Click here for a transcript of today's program   090112EdistoBeachState Park Click Photo for Picasa Album Welcome back to another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. A bit delayed by a five-day visit to Edisto Beach State Park, on beautiful Edisto Island, South Carolina. Right on the shore of the Atlantic. Click on the photo on the left to see some photos of the trip. Even warm enough to kayak one day! This week I've got another treat for you. Mr. Gregg Rubinstein, principal of GAR Associates in Washington D.C., agreed to join us again to follow up Skipp Orr's interview with discussion of security policy issues between Japan and the United States during the incoming Obama Administration. So, enjoy. An excellent overall assessment of what we're likely to see in this increasingly important aspect of the bilateral relationship.

January 09, 2009; Volume 05, Number 02 Click here for a transcript of today's program Dreher Island State Park, SC Click for More Photos Greetings again from Columbia, South Carolina. Just back from Dreher Island State Park with the Japan Considered Mobile Studio. A beautiful place to visit. Right on the shore of Lake Murray, and less than an hour from Columbia. Here are some photos on the left. Just click the picture to go to the Picasa website. This week we have another treat. This is two in a row. You'll soon be spoiled! The media in Japan is full of articles about the effect of presidential administration change in Washington on U.S.-Japan Relations. Most of those articles have been either blatantly speculative, or showing signs of tight political spin. A number of you have written in asking about this as well, and suggesting that I spend more time on it. Well, this week we will. Robert M. [Skipp] Orr agreed to join us via Skype-Phone from his home in Kamakura, Japan. It would be hard to find anyone more qualified to discuss this issue. Skipp played an important role in the Obama presidential election campaign. Further, as a former senior U.S. government official, academic, and businessman, he's developed an incredibly broad range of personal contacts in Japan over the past three decades. So, he's the fellow to go to for some answers. And we did. Please continue to send your comments and suggestions directly to me at [email protected]. They've been especially helpful during the past few weeks. And I thank you for taking the time to write. Even if you do not receive a direct reply, be assured I've read your note, and will take it into consideration when planning new programs.

January 02, 2009; Volume 05, Number 01 Click here for a transcript of today's program Happy New Year to you and yours, from all of us in Columbia, South Carolina. I hope you will find for another year enough of interest on the Japan Considered Podcasts to bring you back for more. Now that I'm an officially retired person, I can no longer use the "day job got in the way" excuse for not producing programs on time. So hopefully we'll have even more of them this year. No promise! But I'll do my best. This week I have a real treat for you. Dr. Jim Auer of Vanderbilt University agreed at the last minute to do an interview to explain the ins and outs of the collective self defense issue for us. Even though he was in the midst of year-end and year-beginning family festivities over there in Tennessee. Thanks, Jim! Quite a few of you wrote in after the last program asking for more detail about this subject. And since it's well beyond my area of expertise -- even my presumed area of expertise -- I thought it best to call in an expert. I'd hoped also to consider the timing of Japan's next general election. But that didn't work out. Next time for sure. There's lots of interest for us to consider there. Even though Japan's media has been full of the topic for the past couple of weeks.

December 24, 2008; Volume 04, Number 35 Click here for a transcript of today's program Thanks for dropping by again today. And Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours from all of us. I hope you have just the sort of year-end holidays you have been wishing for. Today's Christmas eve. Only Wednesday. Earlier than usual this week, because of certain Holiday confusion from tomorrow onward. It may be a while before I even get this posted to the Net! Today we begin by considering Japan's struggle with response to the U.N.'s call for support for the international Somalian antipiracy campaign. Once again Tokyo is forced to confront the thorny problem of collective self defense. And it appears to be no easier this year for Prime Minister Aso than it was for Prime Minister Abe. Then we turn to domestic politics again to follow the "Trials of Taro." Whose position appears to be more and more difficult, if possible. Both the Traditionalists and the Reformists have intensified pressure on him. This week we focus on Yoshimi Watanabe's Lower House vote today for the Opposition-proposed dissolution resolution. And its significance for Japan's domestic politics. Quite a dramatic event. As always, please continue to send your comments and suggestions to me at [email protected]. They make excellent reading. And help me to plan future programs. Even if you don't receive a reply, you can be sure that I've read and considered your note.

December 19, 2008; Volume 04, Number 34Click here for a transcript of today's program Thanks for tuning in again today. Back home in the regular studio, with lots to consider again this week. We've neglected Japan's international relations for some time now. Thanks to those of you who've written in to remind me about that. So, let's make up for it this time by taking a closer look at the last round of the Six-Party Talks held in Beijing from the 8th to the 11th. And what they mean for Japan's diplomacy. Then, we'll turn our attention to the Dazaifu Summit. A historic meeting of the leaders of Japan, China, and South Korea, held on Saturday, the 13th, in Dazaifu, Fukuoka. Quite an event. One Japan has been proposing for over a decade now. A good solid meeting, with one quite encouraging development. A frank exchange of views between Japan's prime minister and China's premier over the Senkaku Islands.

December 05 , 2008; Volume 04, Number 33 Click here for a transcript of today's program Back again. This time from the shore of beautiful Lake Wateree State Park. Producing the program from the Mobile Studio in an ideal setting. No excuse not to be upbeat today! This week we look briefly at Japan's conduct of international relations. Focusing on the frenzied speculation in Japan's media about the effect of the incoming Obama Administration on U.S. relations with Japan. Then we consider very briefly some modest progress in the Six-Party Talks on North Korea's nuclearization plans. Then we return to what has almost become "The Trials of Taro," with a look at recent developments -- perhaps significant -- within the Liberal Democratic Party. And how they are likely to affect Prime Minister Aso's future. The future of the LDP itself, for that matter! This includes appointment last week of Yoshinobu Shimamura as a spokesman assistant to Prime Minister Aso. An unexpected development that may or may not matter. Thanks again for your cards and inquiries about the future of this program, and of the Japan Considered Project, after my retirement from the University of South Carolina. Response to both has been so encouraging that I plan to continue on. So, send your suggestions for the program, and for the overall project, that you can see at www.JapanConsidered.com.

November 21, 2008; Volume 04, Number 32 Click here for a transcript of today's program Thanks for joining me today for our Third Anniversary Show! Yup! Three years. A lifetime in the podcast world. With an archive chuck-full of the audio files and transcripts from past programs. This week we conclude our discussion of political reform, or "seiji kaikaku." And then try to apply the concepts we've been considering to Prime Minister Taro Aso. Is he a Reformist or a Traditionalist? I conclude he's a Traditionalist who just happens to be able to give a wonderful stump speech! And, of course, we consider the significance of all this for the future of Japan's domestic politics. Next week I hope to focus on the timing of the next general election, and what that tells us about parliamentary politics in Japan. And Japan's reaction to the election of Senator Barak Obama as president of the United States.

November 14, 2008; Volume 04, Number 31Click here for a transcript of today's program Thanks for dropping in again this Friday. We're slowly getting back to our regular weekly schedule. Hopefully, it will last. But no promises. This week we return to the Tamogami Essay Incident, considering General Tamogami's testimony before the Upper House Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Tuesday, and the reaction to that testimony. We also consider the significance of 94 additional active duty Air Self Defense Force officers submitting essays for the same contest, and what that means for military discipline and supervision of military training. Then, at long last, we return to the topic of political reform, or 'seiji kaikaku' that we began considering week before last. And nearly complete it before the Old Clock on the Screen went into emergency blinking. Thanks too for your e-mailed messages. Your comments and suggestions for the program are most helpful. Agree or disagree, they're all valuable. So keep 'em coming.

November 7 , 2008; Volume 04, Number 30 Click here for a transcript of today's program It's Friday again. Here in the Mobile Studio, at Lake Wateree State Park. And I'm still on schedule. Remarkable, given all that's been going on around here. This week we have another "extended program," to put it politely. That is, one far longer than our agreed-upon 25 minutes or so. And I didn't even get to complete discussion of political reform, or "seiji kaikaku"! This week we take a look at the latest Ministry of Defense flap. This one concerning the behavior of a senior uniformed officer, Air Force Chief of Staff, Toshio Tamogami. Who's written an essay in which he flatly contradicts important aspects of Japan's foreign policies. Knowing the essay would be published for all to read and comment upon. Quite a serious issue. And one that takes some time to consider responsibly. Then we consider the timing of the next general election. With focus on the motivations of Prime Minister Aso and the opposition parties. This issue too is more complex than it might first appear to be. So, by the end of a discussion that only scratches the surface, we're well over time. Though I think it's important to consider the significance of public funding on the timing, and the actual effect of the election, once it's held. Again, thanks for the e-mailed comments and suggestions for the program. I read every one of them. And take them into consideration when planning future programs. Keep 'em coming!

Program for October 31, 2008; Volume 04, Number 29 Click here for a transcript of today's program It's Friday again. And I'm back on schedule, it seems. Well, for a while, anyway. It's hard to tell these days what the next week will bring. Thanks for tuning in. Today we begin with by considering some significant recent international developments. First, reaction from Asia's major capitals to election of Taro Aso as Japan's prime minister. Then Chinese reaction to Prime Minister Aso's visit to Beijing on October 24th. And the speech Aso gave in the Great Hall of the People. Then a brief look at Japan's continuing reaction to Washington's decision to remove North Korea from the Department of State's list of terror-sponsoring nations. Program before last I promised to take a closer look at the meaning of "reform." And finally on this program I have the first part of that complex subject. What is "political reform"? What are the objectives of Japan's political reformers. And so on. Not enough time to finish the consideration. So that will have to wait until the next program. Hopefully, next week. As always, thanks for your attention to the Japan Considered Podcast.

October 27, 2008; Volume 04, Number 28 Click here for a transcript of today's program Good Monday morning, and thanks for joining in today again. Today's show is a real treat. An interview with Mr. Gregg Rubinstein, Principle of GAR Associates in Washington, D. C. Gregg's a frequent contributor on this program. When I can get him! And always has something interesting to say about Japan's foreign relations and the U.S.-Japan relationship. This interview was recorded via SkypePhone last Monday, the 20th, at just this time. And I'm finally getting it posted on the Web. Better late than never. So, enjoy Gregg's comments on the current situation. Next time I'll return to the subject of political reform in Japan, and how we assess it.

October 3, 2008; Volume 04, Number 27 Click here for a transcript of today's programThanks for dropping by. Today we consider the emergence of Taro Aso as a "Popular" candidate for the LDP presidency. And a victorious one, at that. How Aso transformed himself from a politician very unpopular with Japan's public to one who could campaign for the LDP presidency as the "popular" choice. And win. Including identification of changes in Japan's domestic political environment that inspired that transmogrification. And what all this will mean for Aso's conduct of the premiership. Next time we'll focus on political reform, or "seiji kaikaku," and what it means for domestic politics in Japan today.

September 14 , 2008; Volume 04, Number 26 Click here for a transcript of today's program Today we consider what really motivated Prime Minister Fukuda on Monday, September 1st, to announce his intention to resign the premiership. My explanation is considerably different from what appears to be consensus opinion within Japan's political media. In brief, I doubt that Fukuda was motivated by frustration with the job, with himself, or with others. And that he just threw in the towel. Irresponsibly, carelessly, or selfishly. I believe Fukuda's resignation represents a carefully orchestrated effort to save the Traditionalist character of the LDP, while maintaining the LDP as Japan's majority parliamentary party. And, I believe this difference in interpretation helps us better to understand what's actually going on now within the LDP. And probably to better understand the behavior of Taro Aso should he be elected as the LDP's next president, and Japan's next prime minister. And as of today, at least, it seems likely that the race is Aso's to lose. It further suggests to me that Aso will assume the LDP presidency trying to ride two horses: One to maintain the public approval that he and most everyone else now recognizes as essential to keeping his job; and another with which he'll try to persuade the LDP's Reformists not to bolt the Party. But without allowing significant reforms in the way the LDP has traditionally operated. I've never tried to ride two horses at once. But it looks to me like a dangerous trick!

Click here for a transcript of today's program Greetings again from the Japan Considered Project Studio. Following a massive computer crash. Of my own making, by the way! A crash that wiped out a 320-gig hard drive. And worse, the latest backup of that drive. Fortunately, an earlier backup survived. So only data from early July onward was lost. But that was enough to slow things down! Oh well .... Puzzling news on Japan's domestic political situation continues to flow from Tokyo. So, to better understand the current situation, and hopefully, to avoid more surprises in the future, I've asked Professor Daniel Metraux of Mary Baldwin College in Virginia to join us this week. To explain the current ruling coalition from the perspective of New Komeito. Daniel has been researching the Komeito and Soka Gakkai for decades. And knows what he's talking about. As always, continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program directly to me at [email protected]. I read them all and take each one into consideration when preparing new programs.

August 8 , 2008; Volume 04, Number 24 Click here for a transcript of today's program Thanks for dropping by today. Good to be back behind the microphone after a 23-day RV camping and kayaking trip. Have a look at some photos from the various campgrounds and surrounding mountains on the Mobile Studio Travels page. This week we have a special treat. Dr. Edward Lincoln of NYU's Stern School joins us via the SkypePhone to discuss the economic significance of Prime Minister Fukuda's August 1 cabinet reshuffle. Ed's comments were so interesting that I included the full interview, rather than the usual out-takes. I think you'll agree that it's well worth the time today. Thanks to all of you who wrote e-mails asking about the next program. Glad to know you're interested. And continue to send your comments and suggestions directly to me at [email protected]. I enjoy reading them. Next week we'll return to a more normal schedule, with focus on the significance of recent developments in Japan's relations with Mainland China and Korea.

July 14, 2008; Volume 04, Number 23 Click here for a transcript of today's program Just a quick hello this morning, to let you know Japan Considered Podcasts will be arriving only sporadically for the next few weeks. Until mid-August. Due to my travel schedule. WiFi's not always available in the more remote parts of the country. Though I'll check in on Japan's domestic political and international news when I can. And put up a program when the WiFi connection is especially good. Sorry for the inconvenience. I should be gone by now. But just quick mention this week of three important topics. First, the effect of Japan's participation in the Toyako G- 8 Summit on domestic politics in Japan. Then, the Beijing meeting Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of the six countries trying to work out a peaceful resolution of North Korea's nuclear provocations. And finally, brief mention of former Kochi Governor Daijiro Hashimoto's announcement that he's decided to form a new national political party. Before, not after, the next general election. Interesting development I'll discuss all of these topics in more detail in the weeks and months to come. So, stay tuned, and continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program to me at [email protected].

July 4, 2008; Volume 04, Number 22Click here for a transcript of today's program Welcome again. And Happy Fourth of July! I hope your celebration is going well today. We have a couple of interesting topics to cover again. This time from the Mobile Studio, parked at Iron Station, in our Neighbor to the North. You may hear the sound of gunfire in the background. No, we're not under attack. As far as I can tell. It's just the way they celebrate July 4th here abouts. Quite a sound! This week we begin with a follow-up look at Japan's response to President Bush's decision to remove North Korea from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. Nothing very surprising. The real test of the significance of this issue is yet to come. Then we shift to domestic politics, to consider a proposal recently made by LDP Upper House Member, Ichita Yamamoto. To change the rules under which an LDP president is elected. Yamamoto's proposal has received virtually no attention in Japan's political press. But I think it could well be important in the future. If, as I suspect, Yamamoto is raising the issue with the support of a larger number of reformers within the LDP. We have to review Junichiro Koizumi's experience back in 2001 to appreciate the potential of this issue. Thanks for all of the e-mailed comments and suggestions. Again, you don't have to agree with my interpretations to have your e-mails read and taken seriously. I read each one. It's become impossible to respond individually to every note. But, even if you don't receive a reply, be confident that your effort isn't wasted. Send them to [email protected]. And click on over to the Japan Considered Website at www.JapanConsidered.Com for additional background on Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international relations.

June 27, 2008; Volume 04, Number 21Click here for a transcript of this program Thanks for dropping by again this week. Out in the Mobile Studio again. This time in a new State Park. Have a look at the photos on the transcript. You'll be amazed. This week has been relatively quiet in Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international relations. But there are a few things we simply can't ignore. Most important is Japan's response to the Bush Administration's decision to de-list North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism. In return for an overdue "report" on their nuclear activities. I'd hoped also to look briefly at the efforts of Upper House Member, Ichita Yamamoto, to revise the rules by which an LDP president is elected. Didn't get to it. It will have to wait until the next program. Which, by the way, is scheduled for July 11th. Friday after next. Since the 4th is a holiday here. Continue to send your comments and suggestions to me at [email protected] Oh, and have a look at the Google search facility that I've added to the main web page of the Japan Considered Project website, and to the main page of the Podcasts section. Let me know how it works for you. And thanks, Michael, for the suggestion!

June 20, 2008; Volume 04, Number 20 Click here for a transcript of this program Welcome back for another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. This week we complete our consideration of the Upper House Censure Resolution, concluding that it didn't go quite as its sponsors planned. Then we take a very superficial look at the "breakthrough agreement" between Japan and China announced on Wesnesday. The East China Sea issue. Beyond the initial announcement reports, there's been little mention of it on the Japanese side. And finally we look at Takeo Hiranuma. Conservative? Traditionalist? Why does it matter? Continue to send your comments and suggestions in. They're most helpful. [email protected] will do it.

June 13, 2008; Volume 04, Number 19 Click here for a transcript of this program Greetings from the Mobile Studio parked at Lake Wateree State Recreation Area. Another opportunity to enjoy South Carolina's beautiful scenery and recreational water. Wish I could send some of it to you. A few photos are included in the transcript, though. So click on over and have a look. This week we continue our consideration of the DPJ's decision finally to introduce a resolution of censure against Prime Minister Fukuda and his Cabinet in the Upper House. Things have gone pretty much as we expected last week. Not near the effect on Japan's national politics one would expect from reading the Japanese political media over the past year or so. Then we return to political party system reorganization in Japan. With focus on Lower House Member Takeo Hiranuma's threats to create a new genuinely conservative political party. We didn't get very far beyond analysis of the environment within which this is taking place. Next week we'll focus more specifically on Hiranuma and why his effort may actually matter. And we close -- nearly on time -- with another clip from the Infamous Stringduster's latest album. A great piece of work. Thanks for your attention to the Japan Considered Podcast. Please continue to send your comments and suggestions to me directly at [email protected]. I read them all, and take each one into consideration when planning new programs. Mail has increased during the past couple of months. That's a good thing. Though I'm considerably behind on responses. Even if you don't receive a direct response, you can be sure I've read your contribution, and appreciate you taking the time and trouble

June 6 , 2008; Volume 04, Number 18 Click here for a transcript of this program Welcome back for another program. This week we take a close look at the threat of a resolution of censure in Japan's Upper House. What it means; what it doesn't mean. And its effect. Then we turn to international affairs with review of Japanese media focus last week on China allowing Japan to use SDF military aircraft in their relief efforts for China's earthquake. It didn't happen. But media coverage of the event had significance for Japan-China bilateral relations. And we close with another clip from the Infamous Stringdusters' latest album, "Well, Well." A real winner. Please continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program to me at [email protected]. I read them all, and take each one into consideration when planning future programs.

May 23rd, 2008. Volume 04, Number 17Click here for a transcript of this program. Thanks for tuning in again this week. Lots of travel and activity. Even though it is summer here! This week we wrap up Chinese President Hu Jintao's historic visit to Japan. What was accomplished; what wasn't. And conclude it was an important success for both countries. Before that, though, we look again at the Space Bill that passed Japan's parliament on Wednesday, and what the bill means for Japan's national security and for its conduct of international relations. Especially in Asia. There's been blessed little coverage of this bill in the English language press. Probably because it's summer. But it really is quite important. And finally, we take a preliminary look at Japan's response to China's earthquake disaster in Sichuan Province on May 12th. The bilateral atmospherics appear to have been positive, and that's important. Next time we'll consider the strange events surrounding news that China had asked Japan to use SDF military planes in the relief effort. And what happened to that. This week I have a clip of bluegrass from the "Infamous Stringdusters" that just can't wait. A clip from their latest, second, album. So, enjoy.

May 9 , 2008; Volume 04, Number 16 Click here for a transcript of this programThanks for dropping in again today, to you long-time listeners. And welcome to those of you who have just found the program. I hope it meets your expectations. Send your comments and suggestions to me at [email protected]. I read them all, and appreciate each one. You don't have to agree with my analysis to have your comments read and taken seriously. This week we focus on a preliminary look at the historic visit of Chinese President Hu Jintao to Japan. He's still there, so everything has to be preliminary. But I've got plenty of information about the trip, and preparations of the trip, to consider with you. Also, we consider the significance of legislation going through Japan's parliament this week that modifies the rules under which Japan's extensive space program operates. The international media hasn't paid much attention to this. And to me it seems potentially significant.

April 28, 2008; Volume 04, Number 15 Click here for a transcript of this programSurprise. A Monday program this week. Since there won't be time on Friday to produce a regular program. And just too many things are piling up in Tokyo for us to consider. Today we'll look first at the journey of the Olympic Flame through Japan on Saturday. And the significance of what has to be described as a strange event for Japan's relations with Mainland China. All went well. Given conditions. And Beijing should be pleased. Very pleased, in fact. Then we continue our examination of the various cross-factional associations that have blossomed within the LDP during recent months. This one, Mokusatsu Giren, likely to exercise the most influence over medium-term domestic political events in Japan. The potent combination of Yuriko Koike, Hidenao Nakagawa, and Junichiro Koizumi alone is enough to attract our attention. It appears that Yuriko Koike has gained some potent support in her "non-quest" for the LDP presidency and premiership. Thanks for continuing to send your comments and suggestions to me at [email protected]. They're all appreciated. You certainly don't have to agree with my analysis to have your comments read and taken into consideration.

April 18, 2008; Volume 04, Number 14 Click here for a transcript of this program Thanks for dropping by again this week. To you long-time listeners. And a hearty South Carolina welcome to those of you who have just joined us. Wow! The number of listeners -- and readers of the transcripts -- has made another jump during the past ten days. Good to see. I hope the program meets your expectations. This week we begin by considering current relations between Japan and China. With focus on the Japan visit of China's foreign minister. For four days! Then we begin our consideration of the new traditionalist and reformist cross-factional organizations within the LDP. We only had time to consider a few. So we'll be at this next program as well. So, tune in. Continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program to me at [email protected]. I read them all, and appreciate every one. Still a bit behind on direct replies. But some of you will recognize implementation of suggestions you've made in the various programs. It's the end of the semester at USC. So I will be unlikely to produce a program for April 25th. Day job has to come first! But I hope to be with you the following week. So stay tuned!

April 11, 2008; Volume 04, Number 13 Click here for a transcript of this programWelcome again this week to another Japan Considered Podcast. Thanks for dropping in again to you long-time listeners, and a hearty South Carolina welcome to those of you who have just found the program. Even though this week we come to you from North Carolina! Last week I said we'd consider the proliferation of LDP cross-factional associations that have been developing recently. In anticipation of significant changes in the Party. If nothing intervened. Well, something did intervene. Wednesday's parliamentary "question time" debate between Prime Minister Fukuda and DPJ leader, Ichiro Ozawa. The debate was far livelier than normal for these events. And full of interesting indications of change within Japan's parliamentary politics. So, I've devoted all of our time together this week to considering its significance.

Click here for a transcript of this week's program. Thanks for tuning in again this week. Coming to you from the Mobile Studio at Modoc, South Carolina. On the very shore of Lake Thurmond. This week we examine the surprising increase in the number of mainstream Japanese political media articles related to reorganization of Japan's political party system. Just in the past few days. And sort through the implications of the most likely explanation. That, it seems, is the continuing tumble of the public approval rating for Prime Minister Fukuda and his cabinet. Next week I hope to sort through the various non-faction, even non-party, associations that have blossomed in Japan's political world during the brief period Prime Minister Fukuda has occupied the Kantei. And consider their significance for selection of Fukuda's successor, the next general election, and the reorganization of Japan's political party system.

March 28, 2008; Volume 04, Number 11 Click here for a transcript of this program It's Friday again. And the links above will take you to the audio file for today's Japan Considered Podcast, and to an accurate transcript of the program. Interesting goings-on in Tokyo these days. Just as we like it! First we continue with our consideration of Japan's response to eruption of Tibet problems for Beijing. Asking why Japan's official response has been so muted and cautious. And what that means for overall Japan-China relations. I then try to put the current situation into historical perspective, emphasizing development of more realistic give-and-take in the relationship. Following that we take a close look at a surprising political event in Tokyo yesterday, Thursday. A hastily-called press conference at the Kantei. During which Prime Minister Fukuda announced an end to the earmark for proceeds from the "provisional" gas tax. Beginning during FY2009. An announcement that took many of the LDP's senior Traditionalist Zokuists by surprise. And they said so. Fukuda told the press he made his proposal to encourage the DPJ to return to the negotiating table. I doubt that, and provide an alternative explanation. One related to increasing strength of the Reformists within the LDP. In response to countless protests, we close again this week with an inspiring clip of bluegrass music. The early Seldom Scene's "Want of a Woman." Enjoy

March 21, 2008; Volume 04, Number 10 Click here for a transcript of this programThanks for dropping by again this week. You won't be wasting your time, that's for sure. Whether you're listening, or just reading the transcript. Since we're joined again this week by Dr. Edward Lincoln. Who gives us quite a different perspective on the Bank of Japan governorship vacancy than the one I presented last week. As usual, Ed combines his insights as an economist with a keen sense of the political. For very useful commentary. So listen closely to what he has to say this week. I'd hoped to cover in some detail Japan's response to the crisis in Tibet that erupted onto the front pages of the world media last Friday, the 14th. But there was time only to introduce the subject. The details will have to wait until next Friday. Details that I think will give us additional perspective on Tokyo's conduct of international relations in the 21st century. Well worth keeping an eye on.

March 14, 2008; Volume 04, Number 09 Click here for a transcript of this program Thanks for joining me again today for the Japan Considered Podcast. This week's program is devoted almost entirely to comments from listeners. Comments about last week's program. Specifically, the issue of physical violence in the halls of the Diet, and what I described last week as the antique tactic of parliamentary boycott. Lots of e-mailed reaction to those points. This week I provide a little more detail on each of these issues, and also consider the current debate over replacement of the Bank of Japan Governor. Thanks again for all of the e-mailed comments, and please keep them coming. To [email protected].

March 07, 2008; Volume 04, Number 08 Click here for a transcript of this program Thanks for dropping by today. I've got a loooong show for you. Beginning with some follow-up on the tainted gyoza negotiations between Japan and China. Then moving on to discussion of introduction of what I describe as antique parliamentary tactics into Japan's 21st Century Diet. And the implications of the introduction of those tactics. As well as the reaction of Japan's communications media. Including even violence within the chambers of the Diet. So, have a listen. Or, a read. Depending on your preference. As always, e-mail your comments and suggestions to me at [email protected]. And have a look through the other features available on the Japan Considered Project website at www.JapanConsidered.com. It's all free for the clicking, so to speak.

February 29, 2008; Volume 04, Number 07Click here for a transcript of this program Welcome again this Leap Year February 29th. Thanks for joining me again today. I've got a treat for you this week. Dr. Ed Lincoln agreed to provide us with some background and insight into the somewhat obscure issue of sovereign wealth funds. Some of Japan's reform-minded politicians have been promoting the idea for a while now. It looks as though they may be getting more attention in the next few months. So, we'd better know what they're talking about. Ed helps us sort through the issues involved. Also, we return briefly to the tainted gyoza issue. As of today, it appears that the Chinese side can't continue to cooperate on this one. And that the Japanese side isn't willing to give them a pass. So ... earlier optimism appears misplaced. We'll see, though. It's a while before President Hu is scheduled to visit Tokyo. As always, continue to send your comments and suggestions directly to me at [email protected]. I do read them all. Though the sharp increase in audience in recent months makes it impossible to respond directly to every one. They're helpful when planning new programs, and for background.

February 22, 2008; Volume 04, Number 06Click here for a transcript of this programThanks for dropping by again today to all. Including you new listeners. Sorry to have missed you last week. Day job complications, and a chance to visit my dad in North Carolina. This week, though, we have to consider two gloomy topics. Gloomy both in the specifics of the topics. And gloomy when we consider the Fukuda Cabinet's political response. The first is the collision earlier this week between the MSDF destroyer, Atago, and a civilian fishing boat. The second is the suspected rape of another Okinawan teenager by a U.S. Serviceman. For both, given limitations of both information and expertise, our focus is on the politics of the issues. Especially the response of the Fukuda Cabinet. And, one more encouraging topic: continuation of the bilateral investigation of the contaminated gyoza incident. Or incidents. This has been going quite well. Or, at least, it hasn't degenerated into mutual finger-pointing and name-calling. And that's encouraging. Lots more to consider. But it will have to wait until next week.

February 8, 2008; Volume 04, Number 05 Click here for a transcript of this program Thanks for tuning in to another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. This week we backtrack a bit, with more information about government funding of Japan's political parties. Then we consider the "tainted gyoza" incident that recently erupted into a major topic of front-page consideration in Japan during the past few days. And move from there to the first part of our consideration of how the LDP and DPJ have handled the gasoline tax surcharge issue in this session of the Diet. As always, continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program to me directly at [email protected]. I'm a bit behind on responses, with the recent increase in listenership. But read them all. And will respond to as many as possible.

January 25, 2008; Volume 04, Number 04 Click here for a transcript of this program Welcome to another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. This week we consider the performance of the LDP and the DPJ in the recently-opened 169th Ordinary Session of the Diet. With focus on Prime Minister Fukuda's policy speech. And the recent performance of the DPJ. Focusing on the Party leadership of Ichiro Ozawa. With Ozawa's talents as a political tactician compared to those of Karl Rove in the United States. I also provide a bit more information about the new political reform group, Sentaku. And discuss briefly the DPJ's promising new national budget proposal.

January 18, 2008; Volume 04, Number 03 Click here for a transcript of this programThanks for joining us for another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. This week we have a special treat. Gregg Rubinstein of GAR Associates in Washington D.C., joins us again. Gregg this week helps us to understand the significance of the Ministry of Defense procurement corruption scandal we've discussed for the past few months. Gregg has been active in U.S.-Japan defense relations for a long time. And knows what's going on. He joined us over the SkypePhone on Thursday afternoon, the 17th. In addition to Gregg's contribution, this week we examine the spate of public opinion polls released by Japan's media in the wake of Prime Minister Fukuda's visit to China and the Lower House two-thirds over-ride of Upper House opposition to the anti-terror law. It's quite a diverse set of poll results! We then turn briefly again to the question of significant realignment of Japan's political party system.

January 11, 2008; Volume 04, Number 02 Click here for a transcript of this program Thanks for dropping by again. This week we consider the Ruling Coalition's decision to over-ride Upper House rejection of the new anti-terror bill, the Constitutional rules for passage of the national budget bill, the long-awaited parliamentary "debate" between Prime Minister Fukuda and DPJ Leader Ichiro Ozawa, and begin our discussion of the future of Japan's political party system. Lots to cover. With certain spill-over into future weeks. So stay tuned. As always, continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program directly to me at [email protected]. I read them all and answer as many as possible directly.

January 4 , 2008; Volume 04, Number 01 Click here for a transcript of this program Happy New Year, and welcome to the first program for 2008 in this series. Brought to you again from the Mobile Studio. This time parked at the beautiful South Carolina beach at Edisto Island State Park. There are a few photos in the transcript. Temperatures here dropped to below freezing last night. But it's much warmer today. And we're expecting temps in the 70s here, beginning over the weekend. This week I'd hope to focus on the currents of significant change in Japan's domestic politics. But there was just too much that needed to be said about Prime Minister Fukuda's historic visit to Mainland China. And still stay within our promised time frame. So, what went on during the China visit, and its significance, take most of our time this week. Hopefully, little will happen next week which will allow us to dig into these interesting domestic political developments. Or, at least, indications that we may be seeing some interesting domestic political developments before long. As always, thanks for your attention to the Japan Considered Podcast. And please continue to send your e-mailed comments and suggestions to me directly at [email protected]. I read them all, and respond directly to as many as possible each week. They're a great help.

December 21, 2007; Volume 03, Number 44 Click here for a transcript of this programWelcome back to the Japan Considered Podcast. Thanks for dropping by. The production schedule is still muddled. But the Podcast is going strong. No PodFading here. This week we consider a number of international events of significance. First a follow-up on the "Joint Communique" flap with Mainland China we discussed on the last program. Then preparations for Prime Minister Fukuda's first trip to China as prime minister. Next we consider the longer-term significance of Japan's successful SM-3 missile shoot-down from the Aegis-equipped Kongou destroyer. And finally, on the international side, how the Fukuda Cabinet has handled the DSP inquiry into Government of Japan preparations for the arrival of potentially hostile UFOs. In conclusion we take a look at the LDP's new YouTube website, and consider its significance for political campaigning in Japan. As always, send your comments and suggestions for the program directly to me at [email protected]. I read them all, and respond directly to as many as possible soon after their arrival. End-of-semester flurry has created a back-up there too, I fear. But I'll get through them all, and appreciate the suggestions.

December 11, 2007; Volume 03, Number 43Click here for a transcript of this programYes, that's right. Tuesday, December 11th. Delayed again by the day job! This week we take a closer look at one international and one domestic political issue. Both seem to have longer-term significance for our understanding of just how Japan works. First, we consider the sudden eruption of a flap over Beijing editing the published Chinese version of a "Joint Communique" issued at the end of the cabinet-level bilateral economic talks in Beijing held earlier this month. Then we consider recent domestic political developments, with focus on debate over extension of the current Diet session. Looking at both ruling coalition and opposition actions and motivations, as well as the longer-term significance of all this. As always, continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program directly to me at [email protected]. I read them all, and respond directly to as many as possible. They're a big help when planning future programs.

November 23, 2007. Volume 03, Number 42 Click here for a transcript of this program.Welcome again to this week's post-Thanksgiving Day Japan Considered Podcast. No Podcast next week, November 30th. I'll be traveling and won't have internet access most of the time. So, tune back in on December 7th. This week has been busy again in Japan. Both domestically and internationally. We'll begin with preliminary discussion of Prime Minister Fukuda's trip to Singapore. And his important summit meetings there. Then we'll shift to the domestic political scene, and an event that's received little notice. Comparatively. Election of Hideo Hiramatsu as Mayor of Osaka. Quite an interesting election. With important implications for Japan's national politics. Though perhaps not quite the implications we're reading in Japan's political press. And finally, we'll consider one of the two puzzles I mentioned last week. And the week before! This one continuing -- even intensifying -- discussion of a "snap election." It simply doesn't make sense to me. So, let's discuss it in some detail. So, until week after next, then. Continue to send your comments and suggestions for the program to me directly at [email protected]. I read them all, and reply to as many as possible. They are a great help when planning the topics for future programs.

November 16, 2007. Volume 03, Number 41 Click here for a transcript of this program.Thanks for coming by again this week for our second anniversary program. It was November 18, 2005, when I recorded the first program. Just an introduction. With terrible sound. Check the archives for 2005 if you'd like a chuckle. But your continued interest in the program has kept it going. This week we consider the results of the eleventh bilateral Japan-China expert negotiating session over gas exploitation in the East China Sea. Then we review Prime Minister Fukuda's brief visit to Washington, his summit meeting with President Bush, and how Japan's political press has reported the run-up and outcome. Finally we update the rapidly expanding Ministry of Defense equipment procurement scandal. Finishing well within our twenty-five minute time limit. Have a listen, or a read, and send your comments to me directly at [email protected].

November 9, 2007. Volume 03, Number 40 Click here for a transcript of this program. Thanks for dropping in again this week. We have another full schedule. Japan's domestic politics continue to surprise. So, we'll focus most of our energies on domestic political issues. First, an update of the Prosecutors' investigation of suspicions of corruption at the Ministry of Defense. More Diet testimony scheduled; a few arrests; and plenty of media coverage. I also review the traditional pattern of these political financial scandals in Japan. And suggest why this one may have some significance for Japan's domestic politics. Then we look at the second Fukuda-Ozawa closed-door meeting, and the remarkable media coverage it has generated. Including lots of talk of "Grand Coalition" proposals. If all this hasn't been dramatic enough, DPJ President Ichiro Ozawa decided to submit his resignation as Party president, and then retract the decision. Quite remarkable performances. In addition to these important domestic political developments, we look in again on the series of bilateral meetings between Japan and China over management of gas exploitation in the East China Sea. Another meeting is scheduled for next week. As always, send your comments and suggestions to me at [email protected].

November 2, 2007. Volume 03, Number 39 Click here for a transcript of this program. Thanks for dropping by. Another full week. Even without being able to access news for today, Friday. I'm in the Mobile Studio again, at Hunting Island State Park, on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. A beautiful site. But a long way from internet access! This week we'll consider Takemasa Moriya's testimony Monday before the Lower House Committee, and subsequent Japan political press coverage of the event. What was said and what was only hinted. Then we'll shift to Tuesday's meeting between Prime Minister and LDP President Yasuo Fukuda and DPJ President Ichiro Ozawa. Lots of speculation since about that mostly closed-door meeting. And the decision to cancel the Diet debate between Fukuda and Ozawa the following day. And finally, we begin our consideration of Fukuda the Man, a brief profile of Yasuo Fukuda. That hopefully will help us interpret his behavior and consider the implications of his premiership for Japan's national political processes.

October 26, 2007. Volume 03, Number 38 Click here for a transcript of this program. Thanks for dropping in again this week. We have a full schedule. Though I'll do my best to keep the program to a reasonable length. This week we check in on the Ministry of Defense flaps. Including the "Moriya Golf" issue, and how that issue has been combined with debate over renewal of legislation authorizing Japan to continue refueling U.S. ships, and ships of other nations, engaged in the war on terror. Then we have an interview with Dr. James Auer, Director of the Center for U.S.-Japan Studies and Cooperation at Vanderbilt University's Institute for Public Policy Studies. Jim helps us unravel the complex parliamentary goings-on concerning Japan's diplo-military relationship with the United States. A real mine field.

October 19, 2007. Volume 03, Number 37Click here for a transcript of this program.Thanks for joining me again today. We have a good program. Featuring an extended interview with Gregg Rubinstein of Washington, D.C. Gregg gives us his latest thinking on the nature of U.S.-Japan relations. All interesting stuff. Before that we briefly consider the significance of a couple of items in the news this week. First, Chief Cabinet Secretary Machimura's comments to the Kantei press corps about negotiations with China over the East China Sea gas exploitation dispute. He clearly said -- again -- that Japan believes this issue requires a "political" resolution. And that Japan expects China to present a more reasonable proposal. Clearly, "dialogue" can mean all sorts of things. The second issue concerns NHK's reporting today on allegations that recently retired Ministry of Defense Vice Minister, Takemasa Moriya, has been playing golf regularly with representatives of an important defense contractor. For years. This isn't a new issue. Japan's tabloid political press and newsletters have been covering it for months. But NHK's decision to cover it is significant, I think. We'll just have to see how the Fukuda Cabinet responds. Finally, we have the excellent interview with Gregg Rubinstein I mentioned a moment ago. Full of information and insights. I'm sure you'll enjoy it. And we close with a clip of bluegrass from the Seldom Scene's 1985 album, "Blue Ridge." If you buy only one album of bluegrass for your collection this may well be the one to get. Here's where it's available on-line.

October 12, 2007. Volume 03, Number 36Click here for a transcript of this program.Thanks for dropping by again. And for the e-mailed comments and suggestions for the program that you've taken the time to send. They're very helpful, and keep 'em coming! To [email protected]. In response to your suggestions, I've added a trial website search window to the Japan Considered Project website home page. It's at the bottom of the page. Give it a try. It should allow you to search the website's contents for files that contain words and phrases you input. Let me know how it works. This week we take a look at the latest round of bilateral talks between Japan and China on the East China Sea gas exploitataion dispute. No progress in the talks. But I think they tell us something about Japan's new prime minister and cabinet. Then we continue our consideration of the first 18 days of Yasuo Fukuda's premiership. With special attention to the implications of the style of his selection for his performance as prime minister.