The role of universities in the development of Japanese science

Abstract

Japanese universities are distinguished by long-standing strengths in engineering and applied technology, with much less emphasis being given to natural sciences and basic research. By tracing the historical development of the Japanese university system, it is possible to identify factors that have shaped this bias towards engineering. Such an approach is used in this paper to explain the present characteristics of the Japanese university system, together with factors affecting the changing relationship between academic and industrial research. While a strong engineering base will continue to be a vital element in supporting Japan's future economic development through the supply of large numbers of high-quality engineers and technologists, there is also an argument for expanding university science. Now that Japan has reached a position at the frontier of international best practice in many fields of technological development, there is an ever-greater need for Japan to play a larger role in the international development of basic science. This will help to stimulate original thinking and also create a potential for supporting the future development of new technologies. In consequence, this paper proposes that Japanese science should be expanded in harmony with a continued commitment to developing existing strengths in technology.