We lead a convenient life by consuming electricity, gas, oil, and other energies. However, there must be many people who began to think about energy after the outbreak of the large-scale power outage caused by the nuclear power accident that followed the Great East Japan Earthquake. This column traces back the history of energy usage in Japan and explores desirable energy choices for the nation, while referring to the advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy, which is currently drawing attention.
(This column is as of 2016.)
Professional Graduate School of International Management
Can Railways Survive?
Professor FUKUI Yoshitaka
There has been a lot of news about Japan’s railway industry in recent years, with the Tokaido Shinkansen marking the 50th anniversary of the launch of its operation last year, the Hokuriku Shinkansen started service on March 14 this year, and the construction of the Linear (SCMAGLEV) Chuo Shinkansen is scheduled to begin this summer. However, as transport volume is expected to decrease in the era of population decline, is it really necessary to develop and expand the railroad network across Japan any further? This column looks squarely at the current situation of rail transportation and explores possible future courses for this mode of transport.
(This column is as of 2015.)
Analyzing Japan’s Current Situation and Future Outlook through Demography
Professor INOUE Takashi
The population of Japan is projected to decrease from 127.77 million in 2005 to 86.74 million in 2060 as a result of birth rate decline and population aging progressing at a faster rate than any other country in the world. Although the issue of population aging has been taken seriously, we cannot say that effective measures have been taken. In this column, I will elaborate on the current situation of Japan from the perspective of demography and discuss how we should deal with the issue of population aging.
(This column is as of 2014.)
Professional Graduate School of International Management
Considering Management, Organization and Society through Social Networks
Professor NAKANO Tsutomu
When you hear the term “social network,” most of you probably think of social media and online communications. However, the concept of a social network is in fact one that was initially contrived in the study of the competitive and cooperative relationships among people in organizations and society. To live well in contemporary society, I would encourage you to learn about and obtain an in-depth understanding of social networks and make full use of your knowledge.
(This column is as of 2013.)
