Ryukyu, also known as Okinawa, is the southernmost prefecture of Japan today. However, these islands were once an independent Kingdom and played a crucial role as a link between Northeast and...Show moreRyukyu, also known as Okinawa, is the southernmost prefecture of Japan today. However, these islands were once an independent Kingdom and played a crucial role as a link between Northeast and Southeast Asia during the maritime period. Established in 1429, the Ryukyu Kingdom existed as a separate state for nearly 450 years until it was incorporated into Okinawa Prefecture by the Meiji Japanese government in 1879. Scholarship on Okinawa has predominantly focused on post-war geopolitics or the general exchanges between China, Japan, and Ryukyu in the early modern period, often relying on textual accounts. Unfortunately, the arts of Okinawa have largely been overlooked by the Western world due to the prevailing notion that Japan is a homogeneous culture, disregarding local variations and leading Western Japanologists to lack specialized interest in Japan's peripheral regions. Similarly, ethnographic museums in the West have limited collections related to the Ainu people. These circumstances suggest that contemporary studies on Japan are largely influenced by the country's nationalist concept of a unified nation, particularly after the Meiji Restoration. China had been sending diplomatic envoys to the Ryukyu Kingdom since the Ming Hongwu Emperor, and this practice continued until the mid-19th century when Japan annexed Ryukyu and made it part of its territory. The four-century-long diplomatic history between Ryukyu and China can be considered the golden age of Okinawan history, during which numerous art forms thrived, and Okinawans took great pride in their unique culture and language. The Okinawans referred to the vessels carrying envoys from China as Okansen (meaning "crown ships"), and the primary envoys who crowned the Ryukyu King were called Sappōshi. Although the Ryukyu Kingdom was officially established as a unified dynasty by King Shō Hashi in 1429, the tributary relationship with Ming China had already begun in 1372, during the reign of the Ming Hongwu Emperor and King of Chūzan. In addition to the vassal and tributary relationship with China, the Kingdom maintained careful relations with Japan after the invasion by the Japanese Satsuma-Shimazu clan based in Kagoshima, Kyushu in 1609. The Ryukyu Kingdom pursued a diplomacy of equidistance and multilateralism, establishing trade with China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asian countries as the foundation of its economy. Consequently, people, goods, and information from various Asian countries were exchanged, giving rise to an international "Ryukyu culture." This study aims to explore the enduring but relatively understudied tributary relationship between the suzerain and vassal states through an examination of historical documents and material culture. Specifically, I will analyze similar tributary offerings found in the collections of various museums.Show less
The Japanese Mingei (Folk craft) theory has played a prominent role in the realm of crafts, drawing parallels to the Arts and Crafts movement that emerged in Great Britain during the late 19th and...Show moreThe Japanese Mingei (Folk craft) theory has played a prominent role in the realm of crafts, drawing parallels to the Arts and Crafts movement that emerged in Great Britain during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Mingei, as a counter-movement, aimed to revive traditional crafts in response to the perceived decline of fine arts. Influenced by pioneers of the Arts and Crafts movement, Yanagi Sōetsu (1889-1961) began developing Mingei theory in the early 20th century after exploring Korean crafts. Yanagi's theory centered on appreciating objects crafted by the people (min) and aimed to highlight the significance of these creations. Even today, Mingei continues to be applied to various objects, endowing them with an air of "authenticity" and "naturalness." Objects classified as Mingei are often perceived as traditional, reflecting regional techniques and shapes. The link to "nature" arises from the production process, where craftsmen prefer using locally available materials, operating in a state of mushin (no mind) – a concept derived from Zen Buddhism. According to Yanagi Sōetsu, this non-conscious state enables craftsmen to channel "nature" or a higher power, resulting in objects that embody a spiritual connection to the natural world. This research explores the evolution of Mingei theory in the context of Japanese ceramics and its reciprocal influence on ceramicists. Focusing predominantly on Yanagi's original theories, this study investigates how ceramicists have adapted and applied these ideas. Notably, Mingei theory has been instrumental in differentiating Japanese ceramics from non-Japanese works, imbuing them with a sense of "authenticity" associated with "folk art." While certain elements may not inherently qualify as "folk," they still carry Mingei attributes, reflecting national and possibly essentialist notions. Through comparative analysis, this study examines the work and comments of two prominent figures in Japanese ceramics – Hamada Shōji (1894-1978) and contemporary ceramicist Matsuo Haruka (b. 1974). Hamada Shōji, renowned for his association with Yanagi Sōetsu and the Mingei movement, serves as a compelling case study. His influence on Yanagi and vice versa sheds light on the essence of being a Mingei artist. In contrast, Matsuo Haruka, a ceramicist active in the Netherlands, offers a contemporary perspective, adhering to traditional "folk" techniques while receiving formal education in fine arts and textiles. Her experience and familial connections to Yanagi Sōri, Sōetsu's son, present a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of tradition and modernity in Mingei theory. Ultimately, this research aims to illuminate the dynamic relationship between Mingei theory and Japanese ceramics, uncovering the ways in which this influential movement has shaped the world of crafts. By examining the insights of Yanagi Sōetsu, Hamada Shōji, and Matsuo Haruka, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of Mingei's impact on the appreciation of Japanese ceramics and its continued relevance in contemporary artistic practice.Show less
This thesis assesses the applicability of liberalism as a theoretical framework to investigate Japan's international relations with South Korea, Taiwan, and the USA during the COVID-19 pandemic....Show moreThis thesis assesses the applicability of liberalism as a theoretical framework to investigate Japan's international relations with South Korea, Taiwan, and the USA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Liberalism foregrounds the significance of democracy and free markets and set that these values promote peace and cooperation in international relations. From my point, I will contribute to the ongoing discussion about Japan's role as Asia's liberal leader. By presenting my own argument, I will engage in the debate on whether Japan truly fulfils this role. The research conducted for this thesis draws on case studies and primary and secondary sources to observe that despite facing various obstacles, Japan was able to maintain a liberal approach to its international relations with these countries. This was achieved through the use of soft power, diplomatic efforts, and cooperation in addressing common challenges posed by the pandemic. The thesis argues that liberalism is indeed a useful framework for understanding Japan's relations with these countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.Show less
This study explores the historical transformation and contemporary perception of the Taoyuan Shrine in Taiwan, shedding light on the complex interplay between heritage preservation and visitor...Show moreThis study explores the historical transformation and contemporary perception of the Taoyuan Shrine in Taiwan, shedding light on the complex interplay between heritage preservation and visitor experience. Beginning with the Dutch conquest in 1624, Taiwan's colonial history has been shaped by foreign powers, with Japanese rule (1895-1945) leaving a lasting impact. Amidst the transition from Shinto Shrines to Martyrs' Shrines under the martial regime of the Kuomintang (1949-1987), the Taoyuan Shrine stands as an exception, touted for retaining its original appearance. However, questions arise regarding the authenticity of this preservation effort, particularly within the context of a Cultural Park offering commodified experiences. Examining the intertwined notions of heritage preservation and visitor perception, this study seeks to address the question: To what extent does the Taoyuan Shrine remain authentic in the aftermath of structural changes and how is this authenticity perceived by contemporary visitors? This investigation spans two distinct research areas – an exploration of built environment authenticity through qualitative analysis and fieldwork, and an examination of visitor perceptions via a survey informed by key academic discussions. By delving into these dimensions, this study contributes to heritage studies and the discourse on authenticity.Show less
This thesis analyzes the role of the middle class in China in the process of democratization. Based on the literature, two groups can be distinguished: those who state that the middle class will...Show moreThis thesis analyzes the role of the middle class in China in the process of democratization. Based on the literature, two groups can be distinguished: those who state that the middle class will inevitably support democratic processes and those who state that the middle class can be an important actor in the support for military regimes. In addition, there is a debate between those who state that China is too unique to comply with the theory (exceptionalism), while others state that the theory is universal. In this thesis, a framework is created to determine whether middle classes will support democratization, or not. The case of China is then tested on this framework. The economic dependency on the current regime, the strength of this regime, and the fact that the Chinese middle class is not a unified, homogeneous actor, make sure that the CCP remains firmly in power, without real indications that the middle class will support democratization in the near future.Show less
In the last twenty years new forms of socially engaged art have globally emerged aiming to address the impellent environmental perils. Contemporary Japan, where the belief in an ancient harmonious...Show moreIn the last twenty years new forms of socially engaged art have globally emerged aiming to address the impellent environmental perils. Contemporary Japan, where the belief in an ancient harmonious human-nature cohesion is presented as an authentic heritage, provides an intriguing starting point for investigating the emergence of such ecologically committed art forms. How are contemporary art initiatives attempting to sensitize the public to sounder relational and “ecosystemic” ways of living? What are the proposals that are currently being set forth? The comparison and contrast of two initiatives, the Echigo-tsumari Art Field and the Tokyo-based teamLab project, will allow me to move towards the central hypothesis of this thesis, that is, that self-consciously labelling certain artistic practices as “eco”, can sometimes be a pretext for a variety of economic, social and cultural purposes rather than just an artistic concern. The Japanese conception of nature (shizenkan), which inspires both initiatives will be proposed here as a double-edged sword: on the one hand, it can be exploited to market and sell a static, fictionalized idea of nature, but it also has the potential to become a valuable representational idea from which to depart to develop something new.Show less
The Japanese government responded to successive natural disasters by passing the 2013 disaster resilience law, which placed more responsibility on local governments to deal with natural disasters....Show moreThe Japanese government responded to successive natural disasters by passing the 2013 disaster resilience law, which placed more responsibility on local governments to deal with natural disasters. Although this law intended to improve and safeguard people’s well-being after natural disasters, it exacerbated it. This thesis examines two case studies, the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquakes and the 2020 Kyushu Floods, to examine the law’s effects. The case studies show that delegating to the local level leaves out essential aspects for feasible aims for effective disaster management to improve human-wellbeing. The governmental system remains rigid with neoliberal characteristics and omits the possibility of effective disaster response and recovery efforts. The current Japanese disaster management does not allow for innovation, quick decision-making, adequate funding and close cooperation for the short-term and long-term. As a result, the sociopolitical vulnerabilities become more apparent during disaster response exacerbating human-wellbeing. Japanese citizens have limited access to mental health services, remain in temporary housing for extended periods, and have reconstruction issues. Local communities struggle with a future without prospects.Show less
From the 1900s, the Dutch state wanted to expand its territories to the Outer Islands. This expansion drift was mainly commercially driven but came together with a new policy, focused on civilizing...Show moreFrom the 1900s, the Dutch state wanted to expand its territories to the Outer Islands. This expansion drift was mainly commercially driven but came together with a new policy, focused on civilizing the indigenous people, which was called the ethical policy. To civilize the local people, education and healthcare in the Dutch East Indies had to be developed and improved. Next to education and healthcare, also developing infrastructure projects with new roads, ports and railway connections were part of the policy. For the execution of schooling and healthcare a suitable party had to be found. It seemed that the Church and its missionaries were a perfect fit. The Church wanted to spread Christianity in all places possible, even in the more remote places in the world, which fitted the expansion plans of the Dutch towards the Outer Islands. Both parties had their own objectives but in reality, they needed each other. The government wanted to expand its business and enforce the ethical policy, the missionaries could use government funding to spread the word of God. The main research question of this thesis is: To what extent did the mission in Dutch Borneo met the objectives of both Dutch government and Catholic church?Show less
This thesis focuses on Dutch foreign policy towards Japan during the tumultuous Bakumatsu Period (1853-1868) and situates said foreign policy within the broader context of Dutch neutrality and...Show moreThis thesis focuses on Dutch foreign policy towards Japan during the tumultuous Bakumatsu Period (1853-1868) and situates said foreign policy within the broader context of Dutch neutrality and imperialism of the nineteenth century. The study concludes that even though the Dutch government viewed the Netherlands as a small power in Europe, it was a large imperial power in Asia, and as such it had to pursue active foreign policy in East/Southeast Asia to protect Dutch interests in light of encroaching Western imperialism in the region. Contrary to previous studies, this thesis argues that Dutch neutrality did not imply passivity, but instead proved to be a unique form of Dutch foreign policy amidst larger imperial powers and Japan, in which the ingenuity, character and actions of Dutch actors in Japan was crucial.Show less
In light of pledges made by Chinese president Xi Jinping to have carbon emissions peak before 2030 and to reach carbon neutrality in 2060, as well as to stop building coal-fired power plants abroad...Show moreIn light of pledges made by Chinese president Xi Jinping to have carbon emissions peak before 2030 and to reach carbon neutrality in 2060, as well as to stop building coal-fired power plants abroad, this research examines China’s policies and investments relating to renewable energy. In particular, this thesis focuses on the steps China is taking both domestically and in Africa to reach Sustainable Development Goal 7, ‘to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all’. This research has found that both domestically and in Africa, China is taking a similar approach. Chinese state-owned enterprises have ramped up investments in the hydropower, wind power, and solar photovoltaic power sectors. As a result, renewable energy has become more affordable and accessible. However, China remains dependent on coal-fired power plants domestically, and additional investments in Africa will be necessary to ensure a green energy transformation on the continent.Show less
By thinking of Miku and other Vocaloid voicebanks as instruments, the possibility arises to look more closely at what dwells beneath the surface of the virtual idols. Vocaloid is often associated...Show moreBy thinking of Miku and other Vocaloid voicebanks as instruments, the possibility arises to look more closely at what dwells beneath the surface of the virtual idols. Vocaloid is often associated with Japanese nerd (otaku) culture, though this association is often based on the virtual idols’ semblance of anime characters. Besides the adoration of Miku, the Vocaloid community is in fact characterized by “obscured identities, animated music videos,” songs with “lyrics that describe a more downcast view on modern life – with mostly all of it taking place on the Internet” (St. Michel 2021). Through these characteristics, which are also strongly associated with otaku culture (Azuma 2009; Condry 2013; Morikawa 2012), it becomes clear that Vocaloid music is actually related to otaku culture. This is particularly evident in Vocaloid’s history, seeing as it first gained popularity in an environment heavily populated by otaku. It can thus be said that Vocaloid music stems from otaku culture, of which even traces can be found in the way in which Vocaloid music is consumed, as well as the visual and lyrical content of the songs. From this perspective, this thesis will examine the way in which Vocaloid music is related to otaku culture beyond the image of Miku. It will provide a fitting overview of the history of Vocaloid music and place it into the context of otaku culture, followed by a qualitative analysis of several Vocaloid music videos. This will demonstrate the way in which Vocaloid music still refers to otaku culture.Show less
