Week 3 - Japan - Andrew Tom

Japan's rise to power models that of developed nations in clear ways.  The rise of Japan's economy is facilitated through booming business, strengthened from a national image that participates in international politics and interconnected activities that drive economic growth.  This is echoed in the Koizumi Doctrine, which aims to expand soft power by fostering strong relationships through participatory politics, preserving and evolving culture, and continuing to lead in economic growth.  Here I argue the ubiquity of Japanese brands and products, are necessities in the developed world and continue to drive Japan's reputation as an economic world power.  These products and exports are often subject to consumer demand, and continue to change and evolve as does the Japanese cultural identity in the 21st century.  Japan's "national aesthetic" appeals to and shapes developed nations' needs in a changing 21st century, capitalizing off of the familiar and trendy, and re-branding it as a new and improved Japanese original interpretation.

A couple weeks ago, a newly discovered Japanese dance crew - Ganmi - placed first in a very reputable Southern California dance competition called Vibe.  While not surprising that a crew based in Japan has come to California to compete (our reputable dance crews often go to Asian dance competitions to compete), it was surprising that they beat out all strong contenders and past champions.  Their style and precision was impeccable, and their victory is yet another example of how what appears to be "copycat modernity" returns full circle for a piece of the economic pie in the hip hop arena. .

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTGjbcNwBIg

Tang, Siew Man. "Japan's grand strategic shift from Yoshida to Koizumi: reflection on Japan's strategic focus in the 21st Century." Akademika 70 (2007): 117-136.

Zolfagharifard, Ellie. "Androids Everywhere: From Superhero Suits to Realistic Humanoids, Japan Showcases the Latest in Robotics." Daily Mail.Com. Associated Newspapers, 02 Dec. 2015. Web. 17 Jan. 2016.