Immigration and Naturalization: A Possible Solution to the Japan Crisis

Authors

Samuel DeHaan

Faculty Sponsor

Michelle Low

Abstract

This study examines the current demographic crisis in Japan, namely the lack of eligible adults in the workforce, a lack of relationships and marriages, and an aging population, which has led to a declining population. This study suggests that a possible solution to the crisis would be to include foreigners in the Japanese workforce through immigration and naturalization. This thesis first examines the historical relations that Japan has had with the West and its Asian neighbors and then places that within a cultural context. It further examines how the modernization of Japan under the Meiji Restoration led to a cultural bias and fear of westerners and western culture, which was further exasperated after the Second World War. Lastly, it provides a discussion on how including more foreigners into the Japanese workforce would help to alleviate both the economic issues facing Japan while also addressing cultural issues and social norms.

Recommended Citation

DeHaan, Samuel (2017) "Immigration and Naturalization: A Possible Solution to the Japan Crisis," Ursidae: The Undergraduate Research Journal at the University of Northern Colorado: Vol. 7: No. 1, Article 8.
Available at: https://digscholarship.unco.edu/urj/vol7/iss1/8

UNCO Undergraduate Verification

1