It may be difficult to take an interest in Japan's election last week, since many readers cannot vote. But results this time may be critically important for Japan's future as a democracy.
Basics first: Japan's legislative branch is a parliamentary system with two assemblies. Last week, the entire Lower House (the more powerful one) was up for re-election, with 480 seats contested. 240 seats plus one constitute a majority, and the party (or a coalition of parties) which can make up those numbers can form a government and choose a Cabinet.
For nearly all Japan's postwar years, the party in power has been the Liberal Democrats (LDP). This election was no exception. The LDP secured 237 seats (now 241, after absorbing a splinter conservative party, for an absolute majority). With partner Komeito ("Clean Government Party," founded by one of Japan's new religions), the ruling coalition controls 275 seats -- an apparent victory for the status quo.