I was born in Kobe City in 1955. I worked for Osaka University, Osaka City University, and Kyoto University before taking up a post at Ritsumeikan University. Doctor of Law. In my 50s, I spent a lot of time on the administration of the university and societies with which I am affiliated. In my 60s, I am focusing more on research. I do not have obsessive hobbies, but I feel refreshed by watching movies, listening to music (including karaoke singing), reading books, traveling, taking photos, watching rakugo (Japan’s comic storytelling art), randomly reading magazines, and supporting the Hanshin Tigers.

I have been working on a major revision of Public Administration (2nd Edition) to publish the third edition. I am also writing a new book Public Policy. I am still going through trial and error regarding the method of group work. Regarding classroom learning, I try to make classes stimulating and interesting for students.

I expect you to have curiosity and the spirit of tsukkomi (critical thinking), namely, the spirit of nandeyanen (asking why).

Bureaucracy, local autonomy, public policy