For an inside view on how Japan Inc. really operates, take a look at the workings of the National People's Council on Education Reform, now winding up its discussions and of which I was made a member, although I am not a Japanese national.
The council was formed following deep alarm last year over the seeming breakdown of school standards and youth morality. Former Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi established it, saying education would be even more important than the economy in deciding Japan's 21st century future. The current prime minister, Yoshiro Mori, who was once education minister and has a keen interest in using the education system to revive traditional beliefs and mores, is equally involved.
The organization behind the Council has been impressive. We were allocated to appropriate subcommittees, which met almost weekly. Discussion was free and wide-ranging. Officials remained unobtrusive and attentive. Verbatim records and summaries, and needed backup materials, were produced almost overnight.