This book provides a short introduction to Japanese economic development. It makes ideal reading for those who wish to understand the secret of Japan's success in the world today and to reflect on the devlopment problems of other countries. The author's extensive study of devlopment issues,particularly in South-East Asian countries, enables him to provide a comparative perspective on Japan's development and on economic development in general. The book emphasizes the importance of non-economic factors and the author gives much of the credit for Japan's economic success to itsinstitutions and social structure which have produced a unique management system and a strong work ethic.This third edition has been extensively updated and rewritten and places greater emphasis on Japan's ability to blend modern values and institutions with those from the pre-modern period as a major reason for economic success.