Bicycle citizens : the political world of the Japanese housewife /

LeBlanc provides insight to an often ignored topic: the role of women in the Japanese political structure. Her use of the terms "taxi" citizen versus "bicycle" citizen really puts into perspective the relationship that Japanese citizens have with their elected officials. Although LeBlanc is a political scientist, she used the methodological technique of participant observation, usually associated with anthropology. She actually worked on the political campaign of a woman running for Japan's House of Councilors. Chapter 4, on voluntarism, is of particular interest in terms of insight into Japanese culture. LeBlanc writes that "Japan seems to have suffered a constraint in the development of its voluntary sector that may be the result of a strong-state tradition." This excellent work on the study of women in Japan will appeal to readers with an interest in women's studies, but should be required reading for those trying to understand Japanese society. For scholars interested in formal organizations this should be an important source of comparison with the US. All levels. R. S. Guerra University of Texas--Pan American