NCJ Number
169383
Journal
Criminologist Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: (Autumn 1997) Pages: 131-141
Date Published
1997
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article surveys the modernization of Japan; the precedence of groups and duty over individualism and rights; the concept of "face"; crime statistics; and the role of gangsters (Yakuza) in today's Japan.
Abstract
The Western interest in Japanese management techniques has been mirrored by an interest in their policies on crime control and criminal justice management. Their levels of crime are much lower, detection and conviction rates are much higher and there is much less fear of crime among the general public. Japanese police are highly respected; theirs is a job with status and is regarded as a life-long career. While crime rates in Japan are generally lower than in the West, organized crime is a much more serious problem. Yakuza organizations are involved in loan-sharking and drugs, but also have front companies through which they operate legitimate businesses. The Yakuza keep petty criminals in line, but Yakuza presence and influence in the corporate world and in politics leads to serious problems of corruption. Notes, references