Public Attitudes, Civil-Military Relations, and the Japanese Self-Defense Forces

• In Event: Challenges in Comparative Civil-Military Relations

Abstract

A considerable literature in civil-military relations has explored the proper structure of governmental architecture that allows for the military to safely defend the state and democratic norms despite its martial values. While much of the study of this civil-military balance has focused on the US case, comparatively little has explored these dynamics -- especially the central role of public perception -- in post-war societies with different civil-military legacies, like Japan. Using a descriptive and experimental survey battery, we explore expressions of trust in the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) institution, perceptions of capability in its assigned functions, and attitudes about governmental oversight by civilian leaders. The results will inform our understanding of how Japanese society views its SDF and how these impressions are moderated by news consumption habits, perceptions of threat, and partisan identity.

Authors

• Stephen M. Saideman, Carleton University

• Takako Hikotani, Gakushuin University