The Puzzle of Ineffective Election Campaigning in Japan

摘要: In Japan, electoral campaigning in plurality districts often appears strangely ineffective to observers. their explanations, political scientists have so far fallen back on the proximate cause, namely strict Public Office Election Law ( Kōshoku senkyo-hō ), claiming that it is this law prohibits different and more effective campaigning. This study, however, based assumption such an explanation could be insufficient since even those campaign tactics legally allowed are executed and/or selected apparently way terms of appeal voters. Especially when looked at from perspective structural learning theory, which assumes actors adapt behavior within stable structures by what works well does not, these observations invite further investigation. As a first step, participant observation was used identify types second were discussed qualitative interviews with candidates other practitioners. The results show next appealing voters there goals can determine choice instruments: motivating staffers, maintaining good working relationships external helpers, presenting convictions personal determination. explains part assumed ineffectiveness, but not all it. When seen through lens theory research findings suggest lack clear feedback regarding impact activities inhibits processes candidates. combination constraints time, place resources, factors shape election considerable degree. Consequently, study suggests explanations need take into account than just order solve puzzle Japan.