`Japan's economy has finally emerged from the recession that lasted more than ten years. What happened to the once highly praised (or despised) Japanese model? Leading experts explore this issue, and go much deeper than the simplistic ''J model'' arguments. The discourse included in this book has important implications for not only Japan specialists but also those who are interested in the transformation and evolution of a dynamic economy.'
- Akira Goto, Japanese Fair Trade Commission and University of Tokyo, Japan

This innovative and multidisciplinary book explores Japan's economic crisis and recovery. Specifically, it analyses the role of corporations, the state, macroeconomic and industrial policy, and the changing status of Japan as an economic role model.

The contributors list comprises an international panel of economists, political scientists and international relations specialists. From vantage points across Japan, North America and Europe, they bring together a collection of original studies considering Japan's economic malaise and the potential for sustained recovery. Topics covered include:

* the relevance of Western economic models to the Japanese case
* the Japanese macro-economy and financial system
* the deep-seated controversy over the process and problems of kudoka - the hollowing out of Japan's industrial base
* the future of Japan's small firm sector in a globalizing world.

This provocative and timely book offers new reflections and original research findings on a topic of global interest and significance. As such it will strongly appeal to a wide-ranging audience including: academics in the fields of economics, political science and international relations, policymakers, advisors and practitioners in international institutions, think-tanks and labour organizations.