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From Imperial Myth to Democracy

Japan's Two Constitutions, 1889-2002

by Lawrence W. Beer and John M. Maki

Paperback Price $21.95

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"This book is a splendid introduction to the Constitution of Japan and its relevance not only for the daily life of the Japanese but also for fundamental human rights and world order. It is very readable and highly recommended for college students, general readers, and specialists."
—Theodore McNelly, author of The Origins of Japan's Democratic Constitution

 

While English-language studies of Japanese law have enjoyed remarkable growth in the past half-century, scholars have given only scant attention to the broad sweep of Japan's constitutional history. Deftly combining legal and historical analysis, Lawrence W. Beer and John M. Maki contrast Japan's two modern-era constitutions—the Meiji Constitution of 1889 and the Showa Constitution of 1947. Moving beyond a narrowly focused study of the documents themselves, Beer and Maki present these constitutions as key to understanding differences in Japanese society and politics before and after World War II. Their clear and fluid presentation makes this an engaging and approachable study of not only constitutional law but also this remarkable period in Japanese history.

 

Lawrence W. Beer is professor emeritus of civil rights at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, and the author of several books, including Freedom of Expression in Japan: A Study of Comparative Law, Politics, and Society.

John M. Maki is professor emeritus of political science at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He has authored and translated a number of books, including Japan's Commission on the Constitution: The Final Report.

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Details

  • Paperback Price: $21.95
  • Paperback ISBN: 978-0-87081-686-4
  • Publication Year: 2002
  • Pages: 216
  • Discount Type: Short
  • Author: by Lawrence W. Beer and John M. Maki
  • ECommerce Code: 978-0-87081-686-4
  • Get Permissions: Get Permission

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