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
RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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
JapanConsidered@gmail.com. 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 34 Click 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 31 Click 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 program

Thanks 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com.
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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com.

July 4, 2008; Volume 04, Number 22 Click 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 21 Click 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com

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. RobertCAngel@gmail.com 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
RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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
RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I read them all, and take each one into
consideration when planning future programs.

May 23rd, 2008. Volume 04, Number 17

Click 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 program

Thanks 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 program

Surprise. 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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
RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 program

Welcome 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 program

Thanks 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

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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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com.

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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 07 Click 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
RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 06

Click here for a transcript of this program

Thanks 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 program

Thanks 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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
RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 program

Welcome 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 43

Click here for a transcript of this program

Yes, 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com. 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com.

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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com.

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 37

Click 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 36

Click 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 RobertCAngel@gmail.com.

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.

October 5, 2007. Volume 03; Number 35

Click here for a transcript of this program.

Thanks for dropping by. No program last week. But, hopefully, we're back on track now.

This time we return to Japan's international relations, with consideration of Tokyo's reaction to recent events on the Korean peninsula. The second round of the Six Party Talks, and the North-South Korean Summit meeting. Japan has a big stake in developments there.

Then we consider selection of Yasuo Fukuda as LDP president, and prime minister of Japan. How he was selected. What was expected; what was unexpected.

As always, continue to send your comments and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. And click on over to the Japan Considered Project website for past podcast transcripts and audio files. And, links to useful English language web-based resources on Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international relations.

September 21, 2007. Volume 03; Number 34

Click here for a transcript of this program.

Thanks for dropping by again. This week coming to you from the Mobile Studio camped on the shore of Lake Thurmond.

Our program is a bit longer. But we've got a lot to consider! We take a careful look at the "campaign" for the LDP presidency waged all week by Yasuo Fukuda and Taro Aso. What's happening, and the significance of this important event for Japan's domestic politics overall.

Then we consider the "scandal scandal" that I've been discussing for the past few week. And the importance of genuine political reform for the credibility of Japan's electoral politics.

September 14, 2007. Volume 03; Number 33

Click here for a transcript of this program.

Thanks for dropping by again this week. Last week I said we'd continue to consider the significance of the cabinet reshuffle on Japan's politics unless we had any surprising developments. Well, we had one.

On Wednesday at 2PM, Tokyo time, Prime Minister Abe held a press conference and announced his decision to resign. Tokyo's political world has been wild since.

So, this week, we consider the causes of that surprise announcement, its significance for Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international relations.

As of today, former Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yasuo Fukuda, seems Abe's likely successor. A successor selected by the LDP's faction leaders, in the traditional Factionist pattern. What will this mean for Japan's domestic politics, economic policy, and conduct of international relations?

All considered this week. With more to come next week.

September 7, 2007. Volume 03. Number 32

Click here for a full transcript of the program.

Thanks for dropping by. As we continue our consideration of post-Upper House election domestic politics in Japan.

This week our focus is on an effort to address the question: "Why is Shinzo Abe still Japan's prime minister?" It's a reasonable question, I think, given the difficulty he has had with public approval of his cabinet. And the disastrous results of the July 29th Upper House election. I don't have a definitive answer. But do have several alternative explanations.

As always, continue to send your comments and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. And click on over to the Japan Considered Project website at www.JapanConsidered.com. It's slowly beginning to take shape.

August 31, 2007. Volume 03, Number 31

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Welcome
again to the Japan Considered Podcast. This week our focus is on the
reshuffle of the Abe Cabinet. and the significance of that reshuffle
for Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international relations.

I've
been able to persuade three specialists in the field to join us today
as commentators. First Mr. Gregg Rubinstein gives his thoughts on the
significance of all this for the Ministry of Defense, and its conduct
of its mission.

Then Dr. Edward Lincoln provides his thoughts on the economic appointments -- both domestic and international.

And
Dr. Dennis Yasutomo discusses the implications of the reshuffle for
Japan's conduct of foreign relations, in broader perspective.

I'd
planned to add my own commentary on the effect of the reshuffle on
Japan's domestic politics. But the contributions of our guest
commentators went a bit longer than expected. All good material, so I
didn't feel comfortable cutting it. You'll hear from me next week.

Keep
in mind, this just happened. So these are only preliminary thoughts on
the subject. We may well see dramatic changes in the near future.

Click here for a transcript of this program.

We begin this week with some discussion of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit
to Indonesia, India, and Malaysia. He left on Sunday and is
expected back in Tokyo tomorrow, Saturday.

Then we turn to
domestic politics, with consideration of developments in the
appointment of the second Abe Cabinet. Some of those developments quite
surprising.

And finally we look at Prime Minister Abe's
political style, in search of explanations of the problems he has faced
since his selection last September. I suggest that he may simply be
conflict-adverse. Or that he's relying on individuals for advice who
are out of touch with the current political situation in Japan.

Included in all this is consideration of the continued unusual situation in Japan's Ministry of Defense. With the outgoing administrative vice minister openly criticizing his minister. And Japan's communications media not saying much at all about it. Which calls into question their concern over political control of Japan's military!

August 17, 2007. Volume 03, Number 29

Click here for a Transcript of This Week's Program

Thanks for tuning in again. This week I'd hoped to continue the post
mortem of the October 29th Upper House election. But as so often
happens, pressing events intervened. So that will have to wait until
next week.

This week we consider the longer-term
significance of the eruption of conflict between Defense Minister
Yuriko Koike and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihisa Shiozaki. Not
pretty! And another blot on the Abe Administration's management of
Japan's national government.

We must go into some detail,
since Japanese and English language news reports of these events from
Japan have been somewhat misleading. For the most part.

In
addition, click on over and have a look at the Japan Considered Project
interview with Gregg Rubinstein. It's another interesting addition to
the collection on the Japan Considered website. Gregg has had an
interesting career that spans government service and the life of a busy
consultant in Washington. You can go directly to the interview by
clicking here.

Also note some more progress on migrating
the website to its current home from the University servers. I hope
it's easier to navigate. Go have a look at www.JapanConsidered.com.

August 10, 2007, Volume 03, Number 28

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Back home at last from a 24-day Grand Northern Sojourn. This program
coming to you from the home studio. Hopefully with a little better
sound quality. Thanks for tuning in.

This week we begin by
considering a couple of important international developments. The
first, how the North Korean government's abduction and imprisonment of
Japanese citizens has become a political football in Japan's domestic
politics. Then evidence of a subtle change in the tone of Japan's
relationship with Mainland China.

The remainder of our
program this week is devoted to continuation of the July 29th election postmortem. This time focusing on the response of the Abe Kantei to
the shocking defeat.

And we close with a clip of Tony Rice's "Changes" that I hope you enjoy.

August 3, 2007. Volume 03, Number 27
For a transcript of this program, click:
http://www.japanconsidered.com/Podcasts/Scripts/070803JapanConsideredPodcastTranscript.html

Greetings again from the Mobile Studio. Still on the road, and finally about to get another WiFi uplink. Hope all works.

This week we focus on the results of the Sunday election for the Upper House. As predicted, the LDP lost, and Lost Big! This is quite an event. For the first time since formation of the party in 1955, the LDP is not the largest Party in both houses. So, it's important.

This week, we'll try to sort through what actually happened, and why it happened. I'd hoped to include the significance and consequences, but that'll have to wait until next week.

Continue to send your comments and suggestions to Robert C Angel @ Gmail.com. I read them all, and respond directly to as many as possible.

RCA

July 27, 2007. Volume 03, Number 26
For a transcript of this program, click:
http://www.japanconsidered.com/Podcasts/Scripts/070713JapanConsideredPodcastTranscript.html

Greetings from the Finger Lakes
Region of New York State's Southern Tier. Coming to you today, Friday the 27th ,
from the Mobile Studio. The northernmost point on my long trip with the Mobile
Studio. Great fun. Though internet access has been spotty, at best. I"ve
finally found a WiFi connection strong enough to allow me to upload the audio
file and web pages.

This week we take a final look at
the run-up to the Upper House election on Sunday. With a focus on the two
issues I think are most critical: the government's failure to correct problems
of SIA"s mismanagement of public pension records, and public resentment over
enduring, pervasive problems with political funding.

No bluegrass this week. Sorry. And
the sound quality of this program may not be quite what it should be. The
Mobile Studio is very much a work in progress.

But thanks for tuning in. And, as
always, continue to send your comments and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. And click on
over to the Japan Considered Project website for a transcript of this, and
past, programs. As well as other resources related to Japan’s domestic politics and
conduct of international relations.

July 13, 2007. Volume 03, Number 25

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Greetings again from Spring Valley in the Midlands of South Carolina. I
will be traveling for the next few weeks. So, Japan Considered Podcast
postings until mid-August will depend entirely upon my access to WiFi
connections to the Internet. Both to collect political and
international news from Japan, and to upload the programs produced from
the information collected. I hope you keep checking back, though. I
haven't "Pod-Faded," as Scott Fletcher used to say.

This week we
look briefly at a couple of significant international issues. First,
Japan's role in the international effort to persuade North Korea to
abandon its nuclear weapons development. Then at publication of the
Ministry of Defense's first Defense White Paper. With focus on the
section devoted to analysis of China's military development.

Then
we return to the national political scene, and consider the run-up to
the July 29th Upper House election. The official campaign period began
yesterday, Thursday the 12th. How will Japan's potential voters
respond. There is near-unanimous agreement among Japan's political
press, Punditocracy, and Tenurate that the LDP under Shinzo Abe's
leadership is headed for a loss. A big loss. As one important issue, we
consider the origins and significance of SIA's lost pension payments,
and what is to be done.

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Greetings
Again From the Japan Considered Podcast Mobile Studio. Parked here on
the shore of Lake Thurmond. Enjoying the view, in spite of the heat.
Thanks for dropping by.
This week we focus almost entirely on the
significance of the resignation of Defense Minister Fumio Kyuma. After
the negative publicity his comment on U.S. atomic bombing of Japanese
cities at the end of World War Two incited.

After describing
what happened, we consider the significance of Kyuma's resignation,
given the options, and what it tells us about Shinzo Abe's management
of the Japanese premiership. My conclusions are somewhat different than
those of most of Japan's political media.

Finally we
consider what I believe to be the most long-term significant aspect of
the Kyuma Affair: Appointment of Yuriko Koike as his successor. And
why.

June 22, 2007. Volume 03, Number 23

Click here for a transcript of this program .

This
week our focus is almost entirely domestic. After brief mention of the
flurry of activity related to the North Korean nuclear issue, and
Secretary Hill's visit to Pyongyang.

Prime Minister Shinzo
Abe has forced an extension of the current Diet session. A 12-day
extension. That will change the date of the Upper House election next
month. So, it's important. We consider the significance of this change.
And the significance of Prime Minister Abe's role in the decision.

As
always, send your comments and suggestions to me at
RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I read them all, respond directly to as many as
time permits, and consider all when preparing future programs.

June 15, 2007. Volume 03, Number 22

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Thanks
for dropping by again for another Japan Considered Podcast. Each week
at this time we consider events of longer-term significance in the news
from Japan. Those with the potential for telling us more about how
Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international relations
actually works.

This week we focus on the upcoming Upper
House election. Its timing, how the election is conducted, and the
likely effect on Japan's domestic politics should the Ruling Coalition
lose its Upper House majority. That's not a prediction, now. Just a
"what-if" sort of exercise.

Please continue to send your
comments and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I read them
all and take each one into consideration when planning future programs.

Click here for a transcript of this program .

A
hearty South Carolina welcome to one and all. Thanks for dropping by
this week. Special welcome to those of you who haven't been with us
before. I hope the program meets your expectations.

Each
week we consider events in the news from Japan with longer-term
significance for Japan's domestic politics and/or conduct of
international relations. Not a news show, now. Nothing that fancy. Or
comprehensive. Just interpretation and analysis of what others tell us.

This week our focus is international. First, the
significance of creation of an annual 2+2 diplo-military consultation
framework with Australia, and the first annual meeting.

Then
we take what must be a preliminary look at Japan's participation in the
G-8 Summit being held in Germany. How does Prime Minister Abe's
performance compare with those of his predecessors.

Click
on over too the G-8 Summit website maintained by the G-8 Research Group
at Trinity College. The University of Toronto hosts the website. Here's the link. Well worth saving.

And finally we break tradition and conclude with a non-bluegrass clip today. It's close, though. Hope you like it.

Volume 03, Number 20

Click here for a transcript of this program.

Thanks
for dropping by again to the Japan Considered Podcast. Each week at
this time we consider recent events in the news with longer-term
significance for Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international
relations. The mobile studio is home this week, making production just
a little easier. Hopefully, improving the quality of the sound.

Another
busy week in Japan. We begin the program with an interview with Dr.
James Auer, Director of the Center for U.S.-Japan Studies and
Cooperation at Vanderbilt University. A number of you asked for more
information about the current debate over collective security, and Jim
provides that. Great information and analysis from one of best on this
subject. See a copy of Jim's interview on the Japan Considered Project Interviews page by clicking here.

Then
we turn to the unfortunate death on Monday of Agriculture Minister,
Toshikatsu Matsuoka. Japan's political news has been full of articles
on this subject. Most of them focused on the effect of Matsuoka's
suicide on the Abe Cabinet and next month's Upper House election. While
all that is undoubtedly important, I think there is broader,
longer-term significance of Matsuoka's death that we should consider.
So we do!

Finally, we have that bluegrass clip I promised you last week. From The Man, John Duffey. Hope you enjoy it. If you don't yet have your own copy off "Always in Style," click here to go over to the Country Sales site to buy one.
Or, it's also available for download from iTunes. Just enter "Always in
Style" in the search window, or even "John Duffey." Though I warn you,
results from the latter search string may cost you more than you
expected to spend!

May 25, 2007. Volume 03, Number 19

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Welcome
again to the Japan Considered Podcast. Coming to you this week from
Iron Station in the beautiful Piedmont region of our Northern
neighboring state.

This week our focus from beginning to
end is international. First, a look at Japan's response to the latest
North Korean missile initiative. This one conducted early this morning,
Japan time. Then we consider recent events in Japan's relationship with
Mainland China. Including the latest round of bilateral negotiations
over the East China Sea gas exploitation issue. And other issues of
significance.

I forgot to load the bluegrass clip I'd prepared for you this week when setting up the mobile studio at home. But I'll be sure to remember it next week. Sorry about that. You will find podcast
subscription information at the top of this page, should you want an
easier method of accessing the program. It's just a click away.

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Greetings
from Norris Dam State Park in Eastern Tennessee. A beautiful site to
create a Podcast. Listen to this week's program, or read the
transcript, for more details on this area.

This week a lot
was going on in Tokyo. We begin with consideration of the longer-term
significance of the Diet's passage of the Constitution Revision
Referendum Law. Then we look at the ticklish issue of collective
security, or collective self defense. And finally we continue our
survey of the environment within which Japan's domestic political
competition occurs.

As usual, please continue to send your
comments and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I read them
all, and consider each one when creating new programs. The mail
increases each week. As the number of listeners and subscribers
increases. And that's a good thing, as they say.

May 11, 2007. Volume 03, Number 17

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Welcome
back to you long-time listeners, and a hearty South Carolina welcome to
those of you who've found the program for the first time. I'm Robert
Angel, creator and maintainer of the Japan Considered Project. And
creator and host of this podcast.

Each week at this time we
consider a few recent events that seem to have the greatest longer-term
significance for Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international
relations. Click on over to the Japan Considered website where you'll
find all sorts of useful information. Including interviews with
well-known contributors to American scholarship on political Japan. And
an archive of sound files and transcripts of these podcasts. Which goes
clear back to November of 2005.

This week we begin with an
interview with Dr. Ed Lincoln, Director of the Japan-U.S. Center at New
York University's Stern School of Business. Ed helps us sort through
the significance of the recent spate of FTA agreements Japan and other
countries have been negotiating of late.

Then we turn to Japan's
domestic politics. I set the stage for more in-depth consideration of
the changes in Japan's domestic political environment during the past
fifteen or twenty years. We'll continue on this theme next week as
well, and then consider the current state of the major competitors in
Japan's Diet: the LDP and DPJ.

Don't miss the incredible bluegrass clip at the end. It'll warm your heart all week!

May 4, 2007; Volume 03, Number 16

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Thanks
for tuning in again this week. We have an interesting program. First,
an important correction, thanks to a sharp-eared listener. Then a
Skype-line interview with Gregg Rubinstein during which he explains the
substance and significance of the recently concluded U.S.-Japan "2+2"
consultations. Then, at last we look at the Abe Cabinet's recent energy
diplomacy initiative, including the Prime Minister's recently concluded
trip to five countries in the Middle East, and METI Minister Amari's
visit to Kazakhstan. Both visits including huge delegations of senior
Japanese business leaders.

April 27, 2007. Volume 03, Number 15

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Welcome
back, after a two-week absence. Good to be behind the microphone again
for another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. This one from our
South Carolina home. No traveling this week!

A lot's happened
since our last program. So let's get right to it. We'll begin this week
with review of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's first trip to Washington as
prime minister. Lots to consider there, including the diverse
interpretations of the bilateral relationship now coming from
Washington.

Then, as promised on the last program, we'll
consider the second round of unified prefectural and local elections
that Japan held on Sunday, the 22nd. What they tell us about the
current state of domestic politics in Japan. Talk about diverse
interpretations!

I'd hoped to include a section on
developments concerning collective security, and Japan's participation,
this week. But ran out of time. Next week! Along with developments this
week and next in the field of energy diplomacy. Both very important
topics.

April 13, 2007. Volume 03, Number 14

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Welcome
to another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. I'm here again at
Sesquicentennial State Park, "narrow-casting" from our Little Tin
House, Aliner. Which has become something of a mobile studio.
Hopefully, the sound this week will be better. Since we have several
important topics to cover.

First, we'll consider passage of
a Constitutional Referendum Bill through the Lower House, and its
significance. Then we'll shift to post-election assessment of the
prefectural and local unified elections held Sunday. What they tell us
about Japan's political future. If anything. And finally, we'll
consider the visit of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to Japan. What was
accomplished. And what remains.

As always, send me your
comments and suggestions for the program at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I
read them all, and try to respond to each one. Visit the Japan
Considered Project website at www.JapanConsidered.com. Not much
progress this week. But I was able to record an excellent interview
with Gregg Rubinstein earlier in the week that will go up as soon as
time permits.

April 6, 2006 Volume 03, Number 13

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Thanks
for dropping by again this week. Especially after the terrible sound
quality of last week's program. Sorry about that. I'll try to do better
next time I produce a program out in the wild, in Our Little Tin House.

This week I provide some comments in response to e-mail
feedback on last week's program concerning administrative reform. And
also include more recent developments in that important area. The
English language press has yet to discover the issue, or to recognize
its importance. But there's plenty in Japanese to keep us busy.

I'd
hoped to provide more background information about Japan's prefectural
and local elections. But, there's little information of interest in
Japan's political press. Even in Japanese. So we'll have to wait until
next week when we have the election results, and some preliminary
analysis of their significance.

In conclusion we look again
at preparations for Chinese Premier Wen's visit to Tokyo next week, and
what those preparations tell us about the current state of relations
between the two countries. And close with an inspiring clip from Patsy
Cline that's sure to stay with you through most of next week.

Continue
to send your comments and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com.
They're very helpful, and I enjoy hearing what you think.

March 30, 2007. Volume 03, Number 12

Click here for a transcript of this program .

It's
Friday again, and welcome back. This time from a remote site. Well, not
really very remote. Just the Sesquicentennial State Park in the
Midlands of South Carolina. But the program is being produced and
recorded here among the beautifully blooming dogwood. In our Aliner
Little Tin House. So, you'll probably hear a difference in the audio
sound. Especially at the beginning. Hopefully not too bad.

This
week, as promised last Friday, we focus on only one topic. The politics
of the Abe Kantei's "Administrative Reform" proposal. This is
potentially a very important issue. And, we've seen very little
coverage of it, even in the Japanese political media. At least,
compared to its significance.

So, we'll do that here.
Beginning with the history and overall significance of the issue. Then
how the Abe Kantei has presented their proposals, and the specific
content of those proposals. And finally something on the politics of
the whole issue.

Thanks for all of the e-mail messages.
They are helpful. You don't have to agree with the analysis here to
write in. Just address your e-mail to RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I look
forward to reading them. And will respond to all I can. Also, click on
over to the new Japan Considered website. Slowly, slowly, I'm getting
materials migrated over.

March 23, 2007. Volume 03, Number 11

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Welcome
back again this week. To all of you who regularly listen to and/or read
the show. Another busy week in political and international Japan.

We
begin with good news about modification of the "Sushi Police" scheme by
the Ministry of Agriculture. But then look at the collapse of the
Six-Party Talks held this week in Beijing, as a counter-balance.

The
balance of the program is all about the upcoming prefectural and local
elections. And what they actually mean for Japan's domestic politics. A
number of you have written in asking for clarification. So, here it is.

I'd hoped to consider the administrative reforms the Abe
Cabinet announced earlier this week. They are important. Far more
important than their footprint in Japan's political press would
suggest. But it will have to wait until next week.

At the end of the program we have another nice clip from Nashville's "Infamous Stringdusters." From "A Poor Boy's Dream." You can order the album from Sugar Hill by clicking on this link .

Until
next week, then, continue to send your comments and suggestions to me
at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. Especially anything you might have on the
conduct of the prefectural and local elections. That news is darn hard
to come by!

March 16, 2007. Volume 03, Number 10

Click here for a transcript of this program .

Thanks for dropping in again. It's good to be back at the microphone.
After nearly a two-week absence. Not "pod-fading," now. Just a planned
short spring vacation. Thanks for all of your e-mails. I'll have gotten
through them by the end of the weekend, hopefully. And they're all
appreciated. We've had quite an increase in regular subscribers to the
program since the last program. A hearty South Carolina welcome to you
all. I hope the programs you receive will meet your expectations. Drop
me an e-mail at RobertCAngel@gmail.com to let me know what you think.
I'll do my best to write back.

We’ll
begin this week with a quick review of developments in the North Korean
situation. Because of its overall importance. Then a comment on the Abe
Cabinet’s discussion of defense relations with Australia , Indonesia , and France , and its significance. Next, we’ll consider recent developments in the relationship with Mainland China , including the run-up to Premier Wen’s visit to Japan
early next month. And we’ll conclude with further consideration of the
Abe Cabinet’s management of public communications, both domestic and
international. And I've prepared an excellent bluegrass clip for you at
the end. From the "Infamous Stringdusters." You can pick up a copy of their album, "Fork in the Road," from Sugar Hill Records by clicking here .

You also can reach the Japan Press Weekly by clicking here.

Thanks for dropping by again this week. Sorry the program is late
going up. And, there won't be a program on Friday, March 9. Not
podfading, just traveling for a few days. But I'll be back and at it
the following Friday, March 16th. So stay tuned.

This week
we take a look at the passage of Japan's FY 2007 budget through the
Lower House Budget Committee and the Lower House plenary session. With
special emphasis on what this process can tell us about Ichiro Ozawa's
DPJ.

Then we consider Japan's management of relations with
China, and how that has changed during the past decade or so. Using the
Yasukuni Shrine Visit fracas of last year as an example.

And,
of course, we close with a refreshing clip of bluegrass, just to
brighten your week. This the Original Seldom Scene's rendition of James
Taylor's "Sweet Baby James." Incredible music. You can find Act I by clicking on this link.

Click the link below to read a full transcript of today's program
http://www.japanconsidered.com/Podcasts/Scripts/070223JapanConsideredPodcastTranscript.html

Thanks for stopping in again this week. We've made some progress on
migration of the Japan Considered Project website to new, hopefully
more reliable, commercial servers. The process isn't done yet. But at
least the audio files are up. And the link above takes you to the first
page on the new website server. Nothing much else there yet, however.
Coming soon, as they say.

This week I've devoted the whole
program to more detailed consideration of the political significance of
the continued decline in the public approval ratings of the Abe
Cabinet. It is, I believe, the most important domestic political topic
for Japan at the moment. With widespread implications. We explore a few
of them, focusing on how the significance of public approval of Japan's
central political executive has changed over the past few decades.

Thanks
for your continued attention. As always, send your comments and
suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I read them all with
interest. And soon you will be able to reach the Japan Considered
Project website at www.JapanConsidered.com.

February 16, 2007. Volume 03, Number 07

Thanks for tuning in again this week. We're still in transition.
Migrating the audio files from this and all previous programs to a
commercial server. And setting up a new commercial server for the
Website. Sorry for the confusion. But we should have more reliable
service as soon as the migration is complete.

This
week we focus on two topics. The first is a non-event, the decision to
delay launch of Japan's fourth surveillance satellite again. I provide
some background on the program, and intend it to illustrate changes in
how Japan's attentive public views such issues.

We then
consider the results and aftermath of the Six-Party Talks in Beijing,
including the substance of the agreement announced and the reaction
from around the world.

As always, continue to send your
comments and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I read them
all and take each one into consideration when planning future programs.

February 9, 2007 . Volume 03, Number 06.

Sorry
about the delayed posting of this transcript. Things are back to
normal. You can find both the link to the program audio file and to the
full transcript in their normal place on the Japan Considered Project
website. Just go to www.JapanConsidered.org, and click on the big
podcast button. In the meantime, I hope you found the audio file and
the transcript text right here. The problems with the University's
servers, or whatever it was, seem to be fixed now. I'm hoping to have a
better solution for you in a few weeks.

This week we have
a full agenda, beginning with some comments on the on-going Six-Party
Talks being held in Bejing on North Korea's nuclear efforts.

We
then consider the significance of the results of Sunday's elections for
the LDP and Opposition parties, and Prime Minister Abe's approval
ratings.

Finally we consider the outcome of the Opposition
parties' decision to boycott Lower House debate on the supplementary
budget bill. In protest of Health Minister Hakuo Yanagisawa's offensive
remark during a speech the week before. The boycott is over, but the
results have longer-term significance for Japan's parliament, I think.

We close, of course, with an inspiring clip of bluegrass, this one sure to brighten your day

February 2 , 2007 . Volume 03, Number 05.

Thanks
for dropping by again this week for another Japan Considered Podcast.
This week we continue to consider the problems the Abe Cabinet seems to
be having with public approval ratings. And the various causes of those
problems.

We also consider DPJ leader Ichiro Ozawa's decision
to organize an opposition party boycott of Lower House supplementary
budget debate over Health and Welfare Minister Yanagisawa's description
of Japan's mothers as baby-making machines.

Then Dr.
Kristina Troost of Duke University joins us to describe the excellent
website she has created to provide convenient access to all kinds of
on-line resources on Japan. This is one of the very best Japan-related
websites on the net.

And, as usual, we close with a heart-warming bluegrass clip, this from the Original Seldom Scene.

January 26, 2007 . Volume 03, Number 04.

Welcome again this week to another edition of the Japan Considered Podcast. Click on over to www.JapanConsidered.org
to directly download the audio file to your own computer, or to read
the text transcript of the program. And continue sending your comments
and suggestions to me at RobertCAngel@gmail.com. I read them all,
though it sometimes takes a while to get out a response. The more the
better, though. Lots of good ideas for future programs comes through
that route. Thanks.

This week we focus on the policy
speeches given to the Diet today, January 26, by Prime Minister Abe and
Foreign Minister Aso. Not just the content of the speech. You can read
that most anywhere. But the significance of the items they chose to
highlight in their speeches.

We also look at the results of
the Miyazaki Prefectural gubernatorial election, and the surprise win
of a comedian known as Sonommama Higashi. With no organized political
party support. What does that tell us about the evolution of Japan's
electoral politics?

And we close with a splendid bluegrass
clip from the Wind Riders of North Carolina. They really do -- I'll
admit! -- know how to play bluegrass up there.

January 19, 2007 . Volume 03, Number 03.

Thanks
for dropping in again to the Japan Considered Podcast. Lots happening
in Japan of significance to domestic politics and the conduct of
international relations. We have to be even more selective than usual
this week, however, since we have an excellent interview with Dr. James
Auer, director of Vanderbilt University's Center for U.S.-Japan Studies
and Cooperation.

We'll also consider encouraging events
related to political funds reporting revelations we've discussed during
the past few weeks. And I introduce another excellent source of English
language information on Japan's politics. This one unapologetically
from the Left. It is the "Japan Press Weekly," produced by the Japan
Communist Party. You can find it on the web at
http://www.japan-press.co.jp/

And we close with a remarkable
bluegrass clip. This one from a 1972 album by the Seldom Scene
featuring John Starling on "Raised by the Railroad Line." You can buy the album at Rebel Records by clicking here .
Or, just go to iTunes, click on the iTunes store, and punch in Seldom
Scene. All of Act I is there, or you can buy the individual songs. Enjoy

January 11, 2007 . Volume 03, Number 02.

Welcome
again to the Japan Considered Podcast. And a day early this week. I
leave for a conference early tomorrow morning. So it's today or never
for this week's program. And we have material that just can't wait.
After
considering continuing reports of LDP political "sloppy bookkeeping"
and what it means for Japan's electoral politics, we take a preliminary
look at Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's tour of Europe and NATO. More on
that next week after we have better information.

The biggest
treat,however -- well, other than the bluegrass -- this week is an
interview with Mr. Gregg Rubinstein, Director of GAR Associates in
Washington, D.C. Gregg joined us via the SkypePhone yesterday, and
discusses the significance of the elevation of Japan's Defense Agency
to ministerial status. As before, Gregg provides us with lots of useful
information and interpretation.

And we close with an
instrumental that features John Duffey's incomparable mandolin playing.
This again from the Seldom Scene's "Live at the Cellar Door," recorded
back in the 1970s.

Enjoy, and I hope you join me next week
when we will again consider the longer-term significance of events in
the news for Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international
relations.

January 5, 2007 . Volume 03, Number 01.

A
somewhat belated Happy New Year to all of you. Thanks for tuning again
to the Japan Considered Podcast for another program. Each week at this
time we select a few items from Japan's news and consider their
longer-term significance for Japan's domestic politics and conduct of
international relations. Also, from time to time, we are joined on the
program by another specialist on Japan, who shares their interpretation
of events and prospects.

This week we begin with
consideration of the significance of continuing disclosure in Japan's
political press of campaign financing scandals for LDP politicians.
Following that we are joined by Francis A. Moyer, Director of North
Carolina's Japan Center, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He discusses
developments in Japan's stock market since he worked there throughout
much of the 1980s as a stock analyst.

We conclude the
program with a short clip from a Virginia-based bluegrass band,
Lakeside Junction. This band no longer exists, unfortunately. But their
sound has been preserved, thanks to banjoist, Mr. Bill Krumpter.

December 29, 2006. Volume 02, Number 46.

Good
Morning, again, for the final Japan Considered Podcast of 2006. Thanks
for dropping by. And special thanks to you long-time listeners. It
doesn't work without you. So I appreciate your attention. And look
forward to continuing these weekly programs of commentary and analysis
concerning Japan's domestic politics and conduct of international
relations in 2007.

This week we return to the problems the Abe
Kantei seems to be having communicating with Japan's attentive public.
Resolution of the Professor Homma fiasco we mentioned last week,
eruption of a new political funding scandal, this time within the
Cabinet itself, and its more rapid resolution. And then consideration
of the significance of Yoshimi Watanabe's appointment to succeed
Genichiro Sata as Minister of State responsible for administrative
reform and regional revitalization.

Happy New Year to all.

December 22, 2006. Volume 02, Number 45.
Good
Morning, from beautiful Spring Valley in the Midlands of South
Carolina. Thanks for dropping in again. This week we consider
developments related to LDP factions. Specifically, Taro Aso's creation
of his own faction, that appears to be a traditional LDP faction. Then
Tsutomu Takebe's organization of what we might call an
"anti-faction-faction" composed of younger LDP members who have yet to
join factions. Then we continue consideration of the Abe Cabinet's
continuing difficulty with its relationship to Japan's attentive
public, and speculate on some possible explanations.

Professor
Dennis Yasutomo then joins us to provide some balance to my Kantei
commentary with information about some Kantei initiatives that seem to
be working as they were intended to work. Especially the Asia Gateway
Project.

And we conclude with a clip from the Infamous Stringdusters' "My destination."

Friday, December 15, 2006

Good
Morning, again from the University of South Carolina. Thanks for tuning
in. I've got a terrific program for you this week, though it's a little
long. After a preliminary discussion of the continuing decline in the
public approval ratings for the Abe Cabinet, Dr. Edward Lincoln joins
us for his comments on Japan's current economy, and on the economic
policies of the Abe Administration. Great material.

Dr. Lincoln
is the director of the Center for Japan-U.S. Business and Economic
Studies at NYU's Stern School of Business in New York, and a professor
of economics there. Click here to visit the Center's new Website, which includes a page of valuable links for economic information about Japan .

The
SkypePhone interview with Ed was so full of useful information that
I've run the whole thing. So, no time once again for bluegrass. Next
week fer shur, as we'd say OverHome.

December 8, 2006. Volume 02, Number 43.

Good
Morning again from the Midlands of South Carolina. Thanks for dropping
by. Sorry to have missed last week. Again, the day job seemed to get in
the way. End-of-semester tasks such as research papers, grading, and
writing exams. Those of you who teach for a living will understand.

This
week, though, we will continue to consider the internal workings of
Japan's major opposition party, the Democratic Party of Japan. And how
interaction there among the diverse interests represented will affect
political and legislative outcomes in Japan.

We also take a look
at the sharp drop in public approval of the Abe Cabinet. Its
determinants, and its significance for short- and medium-term politics
in Japan. Key here is a closer look at the Party's decision to allow
eleven of the former "Postal Rebels" to return to full Party membership.

Then
we turn to pending legislation of significance for the Abe
Administration. First the efforts to revise the Basic Education Law,
and then legislation that would upgrade Japan's Defense Agency to full
ministerial status.

A warning: No time for bluegrass this week. But I'll try to have something nice next week as partial compensation.

November 24, 2006. Volume 02, Number 42.

Thanks
for tuning in again today. Without your interest there's little
incentive to prepare these programs and to continue to talk into the
microphone. Listenership and subscriptions are up all over the world.
Well beyond anything I imagined last year when the project began. But
we're still a "narrow-cast," rather than a "broadcast" program, and
will remain so. Given our specific topic and approach.

This
week is all about the gubernatorial election in Okinawa last Sunday.
And the significance of that election for Japan overall, the Abe
Cabinet, and most important, the Democratic Party of Japan. It's a
complex subject and took all of the time available.

We close with another brief selection from North Carolina's Wind Riders . This one from their recent CD, entitled "You Can Share My Blanket." Another great sound from this remarkable group.

November 17, 2006. Volume 02, Number 41.

This
is it! Our First Anniversary Program. Thanks for tuning in again. Or,
for those of you who have found us for the first time, a hearty South
Carolina welcome. Each week on this program we consider the longer-term
significance of events in the news for Japan's domestic politics or
conduct of international relations.

This week, we hear the
very beginning of the first program from last year's November 18th
program. Then we follow up on last week's consideration of the Town
Meeting flap that continues to give the public relations officials in
the Kantei fits.

From there we move to consideration of the
recent prefectural gubernatorial races, and what they can tell us about
change in Japan's domestic politics. We note the DPJ's win in
Fukushima, and then look at the arrests of prefectural governors under
suspicion of bribery and bid-fixing.

Finally we return to
the DPJ's decision to boycott Diet debates over the revision of Japan's
basic education bill. Why did they do it? What did they gain? Or lose?

And
we close with a stirring clip from a new bluegrass band, the Infamous
Stringdusters. You can listen to more of their remarkable sound on
their My Space page. Just click here to go there.

April 28, 2006. Volume 02, Number 16.

Thanks
for tuning in again. No program last week. I was in Washington, D.C.,
visiting old friends and attending a meeting of the Washington and
Southeast Regional Japan Seminar. Current Chair, Professor Tomoka
Hamada, arranged a splendid program, the best one in years.

This
week I've focused on the outcome of the Chiba # 7 district by-election
in which DPJ candidate, Kazumi Ota, bested LDP candidate, Ken Saito.
And the significance of that election outcome for Japan's politics in
the short and medium-term. My interpretation differs somewhat from that
of most of Japan's political journalists and commentators. Or, at
least, differs from what they were writing during the week following
the election.

Friday, April 14, 2006

Volume 02, Number 15.

Thanks
for tuning in again, and for subscribing. I have to spend the latter
half of next week in Washington, D.C. So there will be no Podcast on
Friday, April 21. But I'll be back the Friday after that, April 28th.
So stay subscribed.

This week we take a closer look at Ichiro
Ozawa's first week as President of the Democratic Party of Japan. I
focus on what his selection and presidency can tell us about the
distinction between factionist and populist party leaders. Then we
consider a surprising development in the North Korean abduction issues.
And finally we take a web audio tour of this site, www.Japan
Considered.org.

Best wishes for the Easter weekend, and drop back by on Friday, the 28th.

Friday, April 07, 2006,

Volume 02, Number 14

Thanks
for tuning in again this week. Click on over to the Japan Considered
Project, sponsor of this podcast, at www.JapanConsidered.org, and have
a look around. The interviews with other specialists on Japan's
domestic politics and international relations have been especially
popular of late. And send your comments and suggestions to me at
JapanConsidered@gmail.com.

News of the Democratic Party of
Japan's efforts to select a new president has dominated Japan's media
for the past week. We begin with a look at the selection of Ichiro
Ozawa to succeed outgoing president Seiji Maehara. I apply the
"factionist" versus "populist" categories introduced week before last
to the leadership change.

Then we consider recent developments
in Japan's management of relations with North Korea. Nothing exciting
has happened this week. But I believe the accumulation of actions taken
by the Government of Japan are worth considering together.

Finally
we take a very short web sound tour of the ITV-Japan streaming video
site. This is another useful resource available to us all free of
charge.

As usual, we close out with a clip of bluegrass music,
this time featuring John Starling and the late John Duffy. From their
two-CD 20th anniversary album recorded for Sugar Hill Records .

Friday March 31, 2006. Volume 02, Number 13
Thanks
for tuning in again this week. Our subscriptions numbers still are
climbing steadily. But many more of you are downloading the audio file
and/or the transcripts directly. That's unusual for a podcast. But, I
guess, the result is the same. Glad to have you listening. Please
continue to send your comments and suggestions to me at
JapanConsidered@gmail.com. I'm looking into adding a resource that will
allow you to submit short audio comments as mp3 files. But that will
take a while.

This week's events tended to pile up toward the
end of the week. With important developments today, in fact. We
consider first the background of Seiji Maehara's resignation today from
the DPJ presidency, and its implications for national politics in
Japan. Then we look at positive and less positive developments in
Japan's relationship with China. And finally we consider the current
legislative agenda. I'd hoped to cover recent developments in the
relationship with North Korea, but that will have to wait.

Last
week I ran across a podcast that those of you studying Japanese
language should find useful. It is called Japanesepod101. You can find
it by searching on iTunes, or through a Google search. Here is their
website, which, I understand, is about to go through major revisions. A
group of four language specialists produce a daily program. Quite an
accomplishment. So have a look at:

Japanesepod101

March 24, 2006. Volume 02, Number 12

Thanks for dropping by again this week. Send your comments and suggestions for the program to me at japanconsidered@gmail.com .

And
check the Japan Considered Project website for additional information
related to Japan's domestic politics and international relations. I
have added an interview with Professor John Campbell of the University
of Michigan to the Interviews page. That makes a total of thirteen
interviews, so far. John also has contributed an Occasional Paper to
the collection.

This week we complete our consideration of the
race to succeed Junichiro Koizumi as president of the Liberal
Democratic Party, and prime minister. I describe how two groups, that I
call the "Factionists" and the "Populists," are pursuing their agendas
through the LDP presidential succession race, and then consider the
significance of this for Japan's domestic politics and international
relations.

Next week we will return to the regular program
format, with commentary and analysis that focuses on three or four
events of importance from the past week's news.

Here are links to individuals and organizations mentioned during today's program:

Liberal Democratic Party

Japan Considered Project

Rounder Records

March 17, 2006. Volume 02, No. 11

Welcome
back for another week of the Japan Considered Podcast. Thanks again for
subscribing, or for downloading the audio file. E-mail your suggestions
and comments to me at japanconsidered@gmail.com.

This week we
begin with response to a listener's question. Why all the coverage of
the Democratic Party of Japan when they appear to be going nowhere.

After
discussion of what we can learn from observing the DPJ, we shift to the
first part of a two-week consideration of the race within the LDP to
succeed Junichiro Koizumi as Party President. This includes profiles of
the two leading candidates, and review of the April 2001 election that
put Koizumi into office.

We conclude with a short clip from "Big
Spike Hammer" from Volume Three of the Bluegrass Album: California
Connection. You can order a copy of the CD from Rounder Records at the
link below.

Some Links to individuals and organizations mentioned this week:

The Democratic Party of Japan

The Liberal Democratic Party

Shinzo Abe

Yasuo Fukuda

Yasuhiro Nakasone

Rounder Records

March 10, 2006. Volume 02, Number 10 .

Welcome
again to the Japan Considered Podcast. This week we begin with Japan's
reaction to the Chinese counterproposal on gas exploration in the East
China Sea. Then we consider the significance of the Democratic Party of
Japan's leadership problems, and interesting recent developments.

We close with a web audio tour of the resources offered on Japan Media Review site at the University of Southern California.

Here are a few links to individuals and organizations mentioned during today's podcast:

People's Republic of China, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Democratic Party of Japan

The Japan Considered Project

Sugar Hill Records

March 3, 2006. Volume 02, Number 09

Thanks
for tuning in again this week. We begin with three important
international items. First, Japan's reaction to comments made earlier
in the week by South Korean President Roh concerning revision of
Japan's Constitution.

Then we consider preparations for official
bilateral negotiations with China over the East China Sea boundary
dispute, and its signifiance.

Japan hosted Iran's Foreign
Minister, Manouchehr Mottaki, this week, hoping to mediate the dispute
between Iran and much of the rest of the world over enrichment of
uranium.

Finally, we return to the Nagata e-mail flap and
consider its significance for the politics of the remainder of the
current Diet session, and then its potential significance for national
political leadership in Japan.

The closing bars of bluegrass are
worth waiting for: Tony Rice singing "There's Nothin' Like a Hundred
Miles" on his 1992 Rounder album, Native American.

Here are a few links to individuals and organizations mentioned during today's program:

Republic of South Korea, Office of the President

United Nations, Oceans and the Law of the Sea

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Rounder Records

The Japan Considered Project

February 24, 2006. Volume 02, Number 08

Thanks
for tuning in again this week. Today we'll focus primarily on the
fall-out from the Nagata E-Mail flap we discussed preliminarily last
week. There are more details available. And we'll consider the hows,
whys, and implications of this extraordinary political event.

Following
that I take you on a short audio web tour of the English language site
of the Lower House of Japan's Parliament, or Diet. I'll show you an
easy way to get to the site, and introduce some of its more useful
features. Not the least of those is the video library maintained by the
site. Here we can view streaming video of the more important committee
hearings and plenary sessions. A very useful experience for those
interested in learning more about Japan's domestic politics. Even for
those who don't understand everything being said in Japanese.

We
close out the program, as usual, with a short clip of bluegrass music.
This week we have a few bars of Tony Rice performing "John Wilkes
Booth" from his 1992 Rounder album, "Native American."

Here are a few links to individuals and organizations mentioned on today's program.

The Democratic Party of Japan

Website of DPJ Member, Hisayasu Nagata [only in Japanese]

The Liberal Democratic Party

Rounder Records

The Japan Considered Project

February 17, 2006. Volume 02, No 07

Thanks
for tuning in again. This week we focus on international developments,
and look at the implications of a dramatic event on the domestic
political scene.

We begin with a look at recent developments in
Japan's relationship with North Korea, as Japan evaluates the results
of the most recent bilateral meetings. Then we consider the apparent
thaw in relations with China and what it tells us about Japan's overall
diplomacy.

Japan's hope of becoming a permanent member of the
United Nations Security Council is an issue we have yet to cover on
this program. This week we take a look at recent developments there,
including Japan's reaction to the South Korean announcement that
incumbent foreign minister, Ban Ki Moon, has tossed his hat in the ring.

Finally,
today we consider the implications of DPJ member Hisayasu Nagata's
surprise announcement in the Lower House Budget Committee meeting on
Thursday. Nagata charged, on the basis of an e-mail he received from a
free-lance journalist, that LDP Secretary General Tsutomo Takebe's
second son received 30 million yen from the discredited president of
Livedoor, Takafumi Horie. This event will dominate Japan's domestic
political news for at least the next week or two, and it could well
have longer-term effect on Japanese politics.

Here are a few links to individuals and organizations mentioned this week:

The Liberal Democratic Party

Web Page of DPJ Member Hisayasu Nagata [only in Japanese]

The Democratic Party of Japan

Government of North Korea

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

North Korean Residents Association [only Japanese and Korean]

Friday, February 10, 2006. Volume 02, Number 06

Thanks for
tuning in again. We've run a little over the 20-minute objective this
time. But I hope the content justifies the extension.

Today we
consider four quite controversial issues in Japan's domestic politics
and diplomacy. The first is the fate of the bill to revise the rules of
imperial succession to allow female members of the imperial family
ascend the throne. Second is the political significance of the latest
defense procurement scandal. Third is the effect of the tainted beef
import issue on the U.S.-Japan relationship. And finally we review
results of the effort to hold bilateral talks with representatives of
North Korea.

All interesting issues that provide us with insights into Japan's domestic politics and conduct of foreign affairs.

Here are some links to individuals and organizations mentioned in today's program.

The Imperial Household Agency

The Japan Defense Agency

The U.S. Department of Agriculture

The U.S. Cattlemen's Beef Board

The Liberal Democratic Party

The Democratic Party of Japan

Government of North Korea

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

North Korean Residents Association [only Japanese and Korean]

Friday, February 3, 2006; Volume 02, Number 05

Thanks for tuning in, and for subscribing. This week we made the 20-minute limit!

Today we clean up a few corrections, errors from past shows that listeners have been kind enough to point out.

Then
we review significant changes in Japan's relationship with the People's
Republic of China, and then take an in-depth look at significant recent
developments in two of Japan's other opposition parties, the Social
Democratic Party and the Japan Communist Party.

And we close with a clip from John Starling of the Seldom Scene singing "Gardens and Memories."

Here are a few links to individuals and organizations mentioned on today's show:

The Japan Considered Project Website

News on Japan

The Social Democratic Party of Japan [in Japanese]

The Japan Communist Party

The JCP's Japan Press Weekly

Sugar Hill Records

Friday, January 27, 2006. Volume 02, Number 03

Special welcome
to first-time listeners, and welcome back to returning listeners. This
week again has been busy for political and diplomatic Japan. But,
following advice from faithful listener and mentor on things Asian and
the communications media, Sol Sanders, I've kept the program to just
over 20 minutes.

Responding to another listener suggestion, you
now can read or download transcripts of this and the previous three
programs by clicking on the transcript link below, or by going to the
podcast page of the Japan Considered Project webpage at www.JapanConsidered.org .

We
begin with an update on the Livedoor Company/Horie scandal [last week
it was just a 'fracas'; this week it became a full-blown 'scandal']
that includes comments by Dr. Edward Lincoln of the Council on Foreign
Relations.

Then we review the eruption of another incident in
the long-running saga of the export of American beef to Japan. We
review the background of that bilateral issue as a key feature of the
"gai-atsu," or foreign pressure, pattern in U.S.-Japan relations.

We
then consider how Japan's political Opposition is combining the beef
export issue with the condominium earthquake resistance data
falsification scandal and the Livedoor stock manipulation scandal to
create a three-pronged trident with which to torment Prime Minister
Koizumi's reform plans for the current Diet session.

For several
weeks we have been thwarted by a lack of time in our efforts to take a
more comprehensive look at problems and opportunities facing Japan's
leading opposition party, the Democratic Party of Japan. This week we
made it. In the main segment of today's podcast we consider the
challenges facing DPJ President Seiji Maehara, as he tries to lead his
Party to adapt to changes in Japan's electoral environment. Divisions
in Party ideology and policy orientation combine with the self-interest
and traditional orientations of older Party leaders to challenge his
popular, or even populist approach. An approach that brings Junichiro
Koizumi's strategy to mind.

Then, as usual, we close with some inspiring bluegrass music from North Carolina's Wind Riders, a great band.

Here are a few links to individuals and organizations mentioned in today's podcast.

Council on Foreign Relations

Dr. Edward Lincoln

Interview with Dr. Lincoln on Japan Considered

United States Embassy, Tokyo

United States Department of Agriculture

The U.S. Cattlemen's Beef Board

Japan's Ministry of Agriculture

The Democratic Party of Japan

The North Carolina Wind Riders

Remember to continue to send me your comments and suggestions for the program at japanconsidered@gmail.com . And click through the other sections of the Japan Considered Project website at www.JapanConsidered.ORG .

Friday, January 20, 2006. Volume 01, Number 03

Another busy
week, and a program that runs a few more minutes than the target of
twenty minutes. This time we look at the opening day of the 164th
Ordinary Session of Japan's Parliament, with focus on Prime Minister
Koizumi's policy address, and prospects for this session.

Then
we consider the political significance of the Livedoor Co. securities
flap that erupted Monday afternoon in Tokyo. Livedoor President Horie
ran unsuccessfully for Parliament in the last election as an
independent candidate, but with considerable support and encouragement
from the LDP. Horie is a name we're bound to hear more of during this
session of the Diet.

Then we return to the topic we began last
week, what early maneuvering in the LDP presidency race tells us about
how Japan's political environment has changed. I suggest that Koizumi
and politicians who share his perspective have a better understanding
of those changes than do the traditionalists. But also predict that the
traditionalists will continue to exercise influence over the selection
process.

Below are links to individuals and organizations mentioned during this program:

Japan Considered Project Website

Columbia, South Carolina Weather

Livedoor Co. [in Japanese]

The Liberal Democratic Party

Japan's Parliament: Lower House

Japan's Parliament: Upper House

riday, January 13, 2006. Volume 02, Number 02

Spring classes have begun here at the University of South Carolina .
Students are back, and the USC campus is altogether a brighter place. I
have an undergraduate class in Japan's foreign relations this semester.
About 50 students. Looks like a good group.

This week we run a
bit longer than usual, beginning with an update on negotiations with
China over exploitation of natural resources in the East China Sea, and
then a look at what the handling of the Shanghai Consulate Incident of
2004 tells us about relations between Japan's central political
executive and the Foreign Ministry.

Then we begin a review of
the Liberal Democratic Party's preparations for a party presidential
election to be held this September. Conditions have changed somewhat,
and to better understand the current situation we look back at the
April 2001 LDP presidential election that placed Junichiro Koizumi in
the prime minister's office.

As usual we close with some
progressive bluegrass, this time the opening of Billy Parks' "That
Memphis Sound." You can hear the whole song on the webpage he maintains
for the Dirty River Band, listed below.

Some links to individuals and organizations mentioned in today's podcast:

Dirty River Band

USC's Department of Political Science

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Office of the Prime Minister

Japan's Liberal Democratic Party

The Japan Considered Project

Friday, January 6, 2006 Volume 02, Number 01

During this first
program of the New Year, we focus again on recent developments in
Japan's relationship with the People's Republic of China, and how
changes in Japan's domestic political environment and political
leadership have influenced events.

Next week we will turn to the
LDP and DPJ party presidential succession battles, reviewing the
candidates, how they are conducting their campaigns, and how the
competition has changed since Prime Minister Koizumi's incumbency.

A
listener last week suggested that I post transcripts of each podcast,
and make them available in the show notes. Would show transcripts be
useful? Send me an e-mail at with your opinion, as well as your
comments and suggestions on the show.

Check the Japan Considered website for more English language resources on political and Diplomatic Japan, at http://www.japanconsidered.org/ .
I just posted an interview there with Professor Nathaniel B. Thayer,
author of How the Conservatives Rule Japan, in which he discusses his
early experiences in Japan and how he got into the field.

Links to individuals and organizations mentioned this week:

The Prime Minister's Office, or Kantei, Website

People's Republic of China Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Website of the Okinotorishima Island