Waswo, Ann. "Post-war Economy and its Consequences." Modern Japanese Society. Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1996. 104-127 (Library) This chapter in Ann Waswo's book on modern Japan tackles the "economic miracle" occurring in postwar Japan as well as its negative aspects. From 1945-1968 Japan experienced an economic boom which made it a leading force in the world economy by the 1980's. Americans, experiencing hardships at that time, expressed jealousy of Japan, attempting to take credit for Japan's success. However, the author points out that American Occupation had little to do with the resulting success. Rather, the effects of the Cold War, Korean War and International Trade System aided Japan in economic recovery. The United States did advise Japan to produce high-tech goods, to be the "Workshop of Asia." Also the United States did provide defense; less than one percent of Japan's GNP went towards military. However, what truly created the "economic miracle" was Japan's commitment to success, "GNP nationalism," and government policies favorable to growth. Although Japan had a private enterprise economy, certain groups formed to help businesses. Furthermore, the company exercised much control over the workers, resulting in unusual financial success. Standards of living increased, as well as longevity. Infant mortality decreased. Yet, while the public did enjoy its financial success there was acknowledgment of the negative effects. Pollution from industrialization, natural resource consumption, and priority to economic growth led to air, land and ocean pollution. Also there was a change in lifestyle; social stratification, rigorous daily schedules, problems with transportation, increased land prices and political unrest. While this chapter does not deal with culture directly, it does an excellent job of setting the economic background for Japan's cultural changes. All statements are supported with facts, and potential western bias is acknowledged and amply removed. However, the chapter could offer more positive results from the financial successes. This would include many of the cultural impacts. Hamil Pearsall