Female ascension? Imperial institution thrives due to change

by Carol Gluck – July 16, 2019

The Japan Times

The Argument is a new feature dedicated to promoting dialogue and deeper understanding on contentious issues by introducing various viewpoints. This week’s topic is: Should Japan allow females to ascend the throne?


One of the reasons for the imperial institution’s remarkable longevity and continuity is that it has changed over time. If the imperial institution had never changed its customs or rules or processes of succession, it would not have survived. The current imperial institution is a product of a history of such changes.

So it can change again — that is how history works. Change doesn’t mean the institution will disappear or have its traditions violated. In fact, it means the opposite, enabling it to continue into the future.

There are multiple contexts within which history and change happens.


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