Message from the teacher

Japan is the world's third-largest economy. Considering there are around 200 countries in the world, this may seem remarkable. However, economic prosperity does not directly translate to people's happiness. In fact, Japan has one of the highest poverty rates in the world and is known as a very difficult country to live in. Furthermore, there are around 30,000 suicides every year. It is worth noting that suicides linked to "economic problems" have increased significantly over the past 20 years or so. Japan is an economic powerhouse, but it is also a country that suffers from significant inequality and poverty.

Why is that? Many factors contribute to this, including the deterioration of employment, changes in family structures, and the disintegration of communities. In my course on local government finance, I intend to address this issue from the perspective of public policy—the policies implemented by the government and local authorities. In the midst of an unprecedented budget deficit in human history, what should the role of the nation and local governments be in supporting people's lives? It's an extremely challenging task, but all the more rewarding.

To grapple with the challenges facing society and conceive of a field of study that forms the foundation of people's lives—a scholar I deeply respect called this "fighting social science." Let's enjoy this intellectually stimulating and thrilling field of study together!