[Cancellation]
Invitation to a lecture by Dr. Eric Uslaner, Professor of the Maryland University (March 23, 2011)
"Beyond the Party Lines: Consensus Building in U.S. Politics”

The Sasakawa Peace Foundation has invited Dr. Eric Uslaner, Professor of Maryland University, to speak on the theme of “Beyond the Party Lines: Consensus Building in U.S. Politics” on March 23, 2011.

The 2009 election put an end to the half a century-long one-party dominant system that gave Japan little experience in bipartisan policy-making. However, subsequent political turmoil over issues such as the so-called Futennma issue highlighted the importance of consistent diplomatic policy shaped through bipartisan consensus. As the Kan administration begins to tackle Japan’s longstanding issues ranging from trade liberalization to tax and pension reform, the need for mature bipartisan dialogue has become greater than ever. Some of the questions for Japan include: What are the systems and culture that further a bipartisan dialogue, especially when the Upper and Lower Houses are each ruled by different parties? How can parties reach a consensus on policies that require consistency, such as diplomacy or social security? What role should the legislative branch, as opposed to the administrative branch, play in shaping policies?

Dr. Uslaner will address these questions and provide an overview on how consensus on various policy issues has been achieved in the U.S.

• Admission:
  Admission is free. Registration is required.
  Please register by on Friday 18 March, 2011 through this website.
  Please note that the venue has limited number of seats. If many register seats will be allocated on a first come-first served basis.
  Also, please be informed that the personal information provided at the time of registration will be used to announce seminars, and events organized or supported by our foundation, the US Embassy and the Tokyo American Center.
• Contact:
  Ms. Murata and Ms.Fujimoto(Program Department)
  Tel: 03-6229-5441 Fax: 03-6229-5473