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Media Capture and Information Monopolization in Japan

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  • Au, Pak Hung
  • Kawai, Keiichi

Abstract

In this paper, we investigate the unique institution of the Japanese press industry called kisha club system, which is deemed as the symbol of media capture by the government, and collusion in the media industry. By tracing through its history, we show how the institution has developed as a result of the government's attempt to control the media, and the media's incentive to use the alluring opportunity provided by the government to limit the rivalry within the industry. We find that the distribution of political power is a major factor behind the collusive press-politics relationship. By providing a simple model that links the distribution of political power and the media capture, we explain why this institutional arrangement has been so persistent in Japan.

Suggested Citation

  • Au, Pak Hung & Kawai, Keiichi, 2010. "Media Capture and Information Monopolization in Japan," MPRA Paper 29686, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:29686
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Timothy Besley & Andrea Prat, 2006. "Handcuffs for the Grabbing Hand? Media Capture and Government Accountability," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 96(3), pages 720-736, June.
    2. Besley, Timothy & Burgess, Robin & Pratt, Andrea, 2002. "Mass media and political accountability," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 35988, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
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    Cited by:

    1. Takanori Adachi & Yoichi Hizen, 2014. "Political Accountability, Electoral Control and Media Bias," The Japanese Economic Review, Japanese Economic Association, vol. 65(3), pages 316-343, September.
    2. Hossain, Tanjim & Okui, Ryo, 2024. "Belief formation under signal correlation," Games and Economic Behavior, Elsevier, vol. 146(C), pages 160-183.
    3. HaeRan Shin, 2017. "Risk politics and the pro-nuclear growth coalition in Japan in relation to the Fukushima," Energy & Environment, , vol. 28(4), pages 518-529, June.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Media Capture;

    JEL classification:

    • N00 - Economic History - - General - - - General

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