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<p>This thesis considers the future direction of Japanese security policy by examining the debate on whether or not Japan will \"normalize.\" Normalization is defined as the process of Japan removing its restrictions on the use of military force. Arguments exist that Japan is on the path to removing these restrictions because of a variety of factors such as Japan's worsening security environment and its recent decision to introduce a ballistic missile defense (BMD) program. In contrast to these views, this thesis suggests that Japan will not normalize due to the presence of strong anti-military feelings that exist within the society, both at the public and political levels. To test this hypothesis public opinion, politician opinions, and political party opinions are researched on four issues: general Constitutional revision, specific revision of Article 9, possible changes in the right to exercise collective self-defense, and opinions on Japan's new BMD program. It is concluded that strong anti-military feelings continue to persist at both levels of Japanese society and that these feelings are an effective obstacle to Japan's normalization. Based on this conclusion, it is recommended that the United States increase its efforts to secure Japan's participation in non-combat-related activities.
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<br>Subjects: National security</div>
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Hall, Ryan C.</div>
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