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Sociologists and `the Japanese model': a passing enthusiasm?

Author

Listed:
  • Kevin McCormick

    (University of Sussex, k.j.mccormick@sussex.ac.uk)

Abstract

This article critiques the construction of `the Japanese model' of employment relations by sociologists in English language sociological research monographs, organization textbooks and introductory general textbooks. It demonstrates how marked differences emerged across the different genres and relates them to the different purposes of researchers and textbook writers.The article examines three particular puzzles. First, why did general textbooks adopt `the Japanese model' in the 1990s when media commentaries were announcing the demise of the Japanese model in Japan? Second, why did the 1990s textbooks use 1980s organization textbooks rather than research monographs for their sources? Third, why are general textbooks ready to distance themselves from the model in 2006 when researchers confirm continuing vitality in the Japanese model in large Japanese companies? Answering these questions reveals how sociological knowledge of Japanese employment has been generated, disseminated and used in research, teaching and policy debates.

Suggested Citation

  • Kevin McCormick, 2007. "Sociologists and `the Japanese model': a passing enthusiasm?," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 21(4), pages 751-771, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:21:y:2007:i:4:p:751-771
    DOI: 10.1177/0950017007082883
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Toyohiro Kono & Stewart Clegg, 2001. "Trends in Japanese Management," Palgrave Macmillan Books, Palgrave Macmillan, number 978-0-333-99389-7, December.
    2. Ouchi, William, 1981. "Theory Z: How American business can meet the Japanese challenge," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 24(6), pages 82-83.
    3. Dore, Ronald, 2000. "Stock Market Capitalism: Welfare Capitalism: Japan and Germany versus the Anglo-Saxons," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199240616.
    4. Rebick, Marcus, 2005. "The Japanese Employment System: Adapting to a New Economic Environment," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199247240.
    5. Pascale, Richard Tanner & Athos, Anthony G., 1981. "The art of Japanese management," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 24(6), pages 83-85.
    6. Ron Dore, 2006. "Japan's Shareholder Revolution," CentrePiece - The magazine for economic performance 220, Centre for Economic Performance, LSE.
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