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Many introductory texts on political science have been published in Japan. However, prior to the study of political science as a discipline, students first came to know of “politics” and then thought of the subject themselves. This book was written for students of political science with the view that an introductory text is necessary for these initial steps. Nevertheless, the book is suitable for those beginning to think about politics, even if they have not had the opportunity to study political science, or those who do not have the desire to do so, including high school students and undergraduate university students.
 
Strictly speaking, the discipline of politics was born in the “polis” of ancient Greece as a means for citizens to freely gather and discuss public matters as equals and to make decisions on those matters. Politics has been discussed in various forms in the later traditions of political thought but the idea of the original form continues to this day. Even Japan, which does not belong to the Western culture, has implemented a constitution and parliamentary system as part of the process of modernization, and the Japanese word seiji is commonly used to mean “politics.”
 
If we assume the “free” space for discussion noted above to mean the surface of politics, when thinking about “politics,” we must take care to look under the surface as well. Co-existing with those with different values requires compromise. Sometimes the morally irresponsible methods of hypocrisy and lying are used. When confronted with the reality of politics, it is important to not be dismayed and to keep on striving to make better choices.
 
This book is thin and easy to carry around. It is highly recommended for those who do not necessarily feel an affinity with the subject of politics but, nevertheless, want to acquaint themselves with it. After reading this book, one may be tempted to lose faith in politics, though that in itself is important to gain knowledge about politics.
 

(Written by KARUBE Tadashi, Professor, Graduate Schools for Law and Politics / 2017)