ASIA2009/ASIA6010: Modern Japan
Individual Research Paper
Grade: 40%
Due: 31 May 2022

In this research paper students will research and write on a topic of their own choice or choose from one of the
suggestions below. Students will be expected to access a range of materials beyond the course readings, including
scholarly literature and other materials such as newspapers, magazines, government reports, etc. (where available &
necessary). The essay will conform to standard academic writing conventions and will be assessed in these terms.

In the research essay students will need to display their ability to formulate a research question as well as
apply/critique/expand on relevant scholarly literature and utilize primary sources (if available). The essay will test
students’ ability to craft and develop a sophisticated historical argument relating to modern Japanese history.

You may write the essay either in English or Japanese depending on your preference.

Length (English): 1800-2000 words (ug), 2000-3000 words (pg) (+/- 10%) (not including references)
Length (Japanese): 3600-4000字 (ug), 4000-6000字 (pg) (+/- 10%) (not including references)

REFERENCING:

- Use Chicago “footnotes and bibliography” style
(http://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/tools_citationguide/citation-guide-1.html)

SUBMISSION: Upload to Wattle

POSSIBLE TOPICS:

1) Examine the social, political, and economic impacts of epidemics during the Edo period

2) Write an essay examining the role of one or more groups involved in bringing about the Meiji Restoration. What
role did this group(s) play?

3) Write an essay examining the impact of West on Japan as it modernized during the early Meiji era (1868~1890).
You might focus on one or more aspects of the Western influence (e.g. on politics, society and culture, literature
and ideas, technology, or business, industry, and economy)

4) The period from around the beginning of the 20th century until 1932 has been described as the era of “Imperial
Democracy” or “Taishō Democracy.” Write an essay investigating this claim using one or more historical
phenomenon from the time (e.g. social protest and activism, literature and thought, cultural trends, gender)

5) Discuss the historical significance of the Postwar Constitution with reference to one or more of the following
aspects: the Emperor, the Diet and cabinet, the military, citizen rights, women’s rights, local government, or any
aspect(s) of your choice. (https://japan.kantei.go.jp/constitution_and_government_of_japan/constitution_e.html)

6) It is often observed that Japan has a “history problem” relating to its collective memory and handling of legacies
from World War II, especially in East Asia. Write a paper analyzing the causes and contemporary ramifications of
this history problem.

7) In the 1960s and early 1970s Japan was described as a “polluted archipelago.” Write a paper investigating Japan’s
industrial pollution crisis and its significance for understanding postwar Japan.

8) The period from around 1990 onwards has been described as Japan’s “Lost Decades.” Write an essay critically
examining this description.

9) Choose your own topic.