Toward a more effective Japan policy. Master`s thesis

Thesis/Dissertation · Thu Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1995

OSTI ID:250438

Jeffrey, J D

The United States and Japan have shared a close relationship since the end of World War 2. What began as a victor- and-vanquished relationship was transformed into one of the Cold War`s pillars of Containment. Now the Cold War is over yet the United States remains responsible for the external defense of the state that possesses the world`s second most powerful economy. Simultaneously, Japan is attempting to end its tradition of political isolationism. As Japan exercises ever increasing autonomy and less deference to U.S. policy and desires, the administration, congress, and American public are searching for the elusive peace dividend. Should Japan continue to progress toward the ultimate goal of normal nation status, those animosities now present primarily in the trade realm may spill-over into the political and security arenas. Additionally, the 1 August 1994 edition of the Mainichi Shimbun reported that the Japanese Foreign Ministry secretly decided, in 1969, to develop the potential to make nuclear weapons without actually producing them. The same report indicated that the potential had been met. Now another complication to the relationship has emerged. While it is understandable for Japan to desire an indigenous nuclear deterrent capability, Japan`s status as a virtual proliferator runs contrary to U.S. nonproliferation policy. This thesis explores the future of the United States-Japan relationship considering the current international environment -- a seemingly absent raison d`ene. Recommendations for a revised Japan policy including an innovative approach to allied nuclear proliferation are presented.

• Research Organization: Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA (United States)
• OSTI ID: 250438
• Report Number(s): AD-A--302952/7/XAB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

35 ARMS CONTROL
ARMS CONTROL
FOREIGN POLICY
HISTORICAL ASPECTS
JAPAN
NUCLEAR WEAPONS
POLITICAL ASPECTS