Is War Inevitable? Analysing East Asian Security Through the Lens of Japanese Public Opinion

Is war unavoidable in the near future of East Asia? By applying a simple rationalist framework and analysing data from Japanese Public Opinion Experiments, Professor Tago evaluates the likely prospects for peace and conflict in the region. The seminar examines how democratic quasi-alliances, such as the Australia-Japan partnership, can contribute to managing potential crises and how public sentiment shapes regional security dynamics. Drawing on empirical evidence, Professor Tago argues that effective deterrence, credible security guarantees, trust-building among key actors, and the cultivation of rational public opinion are vital to maintaining peace in East Asia. 

Following the presentation, Professor Tago will also provide a brief introduction to the journal International Relations of the Asia-Pacific (IRAP) (Q1 journal in Political Science and International Relations), where he currently serves as Editor-in-Chief, and discuss opportunities for scholars interested in publishing research on international relations and Asia-Pacific affairs. 

Link for Online participants: https://utsmeet.zoom.us/j/84839004666