
Food Education and Rural Resilience in Japan Nourishing National Identity
Product information for Food Education and Rural Resilience in Japan Nourishing National Identity
Discover the hidden dynamics of Japan's celebrated food education system in "Food Education and Rural Resilience in Japan: Nourishing National Identity," available at Routledge. While Japan's shokuiku law is often praised for contributing to the nation's remarkable health outcomes—including high life expectancy and low obesity rates—this book offers a deeper, more critical perspective. It challenges the common belief that food education is purely beneficial by uncovering the political and social agendas embedded within government-led initiatives. Through detailed analysis, the book reveals how food diagrams, fairs, and school lunch programs are used to reinforce nationalism and traditional gender roles. It also examines how rural educators leverage food education to address pressing issues like depopulation and economic decline, emphasizing resilience and local self-sufficiency. Even in the wake of the 2011 Fukushima disaster, the focus on regional food systems remained strong, showcasing the adaptability and determination of these communities. Drawing on Foucault’s concept of governmentality, historical context, and extensive fieldwork, this Routledge publication provides a nuanced look at the complex forces shaping food education in a non-Western society. Ideal for scholars, students, and anyone interested in food policy, cultural studies, or Japanese society, this book invites you to rethink what you know about food, education, and national identity. Visit Routledge.com to explore this insightful study and enrich your understanding of global food systems.





















