Guest Lecture Report: Prof. Dr. Sam Bamkin (University of Tokyo)
On June 16, 2025, Prof. Dr. Sam Bamkin from the University of Tokyo gave a lecture at the Chair of Japanese Studies, titled “Moral Education and the Policymaking Process in Japanese Education.”
The lecture provided an insightful analysis of the moral education reform, launched under then-Prime Minister Shinzō Abe with the aim of fostering patriotism. It revealed how the reform was implemented in practice from 2015 onward, emphasizing the difficulties encountered in developing a shared understanding of the concept of patriotism among teachers, as well as in replacing content in existing textbooks.
The lecture was followed by a lively Q&A session. Several participants raised thoughtful questions, and the discussion was extended beyond the scheduled time, leading to an engaging and fruitful exchange of ideas.
We sincerely thank Prof. Dr. Bamkin for his inspiring presentation and generous engagement with the audience.
Organizer
Prof. Dr. Ayaka Löschke