For decades, Japan's foreign policy has been seen by both internal and external observers as abnormal in relation to its size and level of sophistication. Japan as a 'Normal Country'? is a thematic and geographically comparative discussion of the unique limitations of Japanese foreign and defence policy. The contributors reappraise the definition of normality and ask whether Japan is indeed abnormal, what it would mean to become normal, and whether the country can—or should—become so.
Identifying constraints such as an inflexible constitution, inherent antimilitarism, and its position as a U.S. security client, Japan as a 'Normal Country'? goes on to analyse factors that could make Japan a more effective regional and global player. These essays ultimately consider how Japan could leverage its considerable human, cultural, technological, and financial capital to benefit both its citizens and the world.

Yoshihide Soeya is a professor in the Faculty of Law at Keio University.

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David A. Welch is CIGI Chair of Global Security in the Balsillie School of International Affairs at the University of Waterloo.

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Masayuki Tadokoro is a professor in the Faculty of Law at Keio University.

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‘This is a superb volume that anyone interested in today’s key debate about Japanese foreign policy must read.’

Pacific Affairs, vol 86:01:2013