Japanese Prime Ministers and Their Peace Philosophy: 1945 to the Present [Hardcover]

This book focuses on the lives and peace philosophy of Japanese prime ministers from 1945 to the present, attempting to extract one consistent political philosophy, namely, the peace philosophy that has consistently influenced Japans foreign and defense policy. Exploring the meta-narrative of international relations and politics, this book provides a new meta-analysis of the factors underpinning Japanese politics, providing a timely insight into one of Asia's most powerful yet enigmatic players in a time of transformation. This book will interest scholars of international relations, those watching Asia in transition, and journalists.

1. Introduction: A Study of Prime Ministers in Postwar Japan.- 2. Kantaro Suzuki: The Premier Who Ended the War.- 3. Naruhiko Higashikuni: The Imperial Leader Who Disbanded the Armed Forces.- 4. Kijuro Shidehara: An Internationalist Who Embraced the Peace Clause.- 5. Shigeru Yoshida (I): The Antiwar Pacifist as a Diplomat and Leader.- 6. Tetsu Katayama: The Christian Pacifist and First Socialist Premier.- 7. Hitoshi Ashida: The Diplomat, Journalist, and Advocate for International Peace.- 8. Shigeru Yoshida (II): The Peace Treaty, the Alliance, and the Self-Defense Forces.- 9. Ichiro Hatoyama: The First LDP Premier to Normalize Relations with Moscow.- 10. Tanzan Ishibashi: The Antiwar Journalist, Statesman, and Peace Philosopher.- 11. Nobusuke Kishi: The Nationalist Premier Who Revised the Security Treaty.- 12. Hayato Ikeda: The Income Doubling Plan and Peace through Prosperity Initiative.- 13. Eisaku Sato: Non-Nuclear Policy,Nuclear-Free Okinawa, and the Peace Prize.- 14. Kakuei Tanaka: Remodeling Japan and Normalizing Relations with China.- 15. Takeo Miki: The Antiwar Pacifist and Advocate for Clean Politics.- 16. Takeo Fukuda: The FukulCƒ