The document compares election campaigns in Japan and the United States. In Japan, election campaigns emphasize group consciousness, with both major parties (LDP and DPJ) having similar platforms. Politicians give serious, policy-focused speeches. In the US, campaigns reflect individualism, with the major parties (Republican and Democrat) having differing platforms. Politicians aim to build personalities through their public appearances. Debates focus on criticizing opponents rather than just policies. Overall, the differences in campaign styles reflect the cultural emphases on group versus individual in each country.

1. Election Campaign - as a Cultural Event

5. Japanese and US Voter Affiliation Public opinion poll in telephone (August 1 st &2 nd , 2009) by Kyodo News Service ( 共同通信）

9. USA’s “platform” (2008) Show the individualism Obama (Democrat) McCain (Republic) Strong border regulation Immigration Strong border regulation Immediately begin troop withdrawal . War in Iraq Opposes timetable for withdrawal . Pro-choice Abortion Pro-Life Cut for the middle class Taxes Cut for upper class Promote National Insurance Plan; thanks to Government support Health Care Promote lower costs; thanks to market mechanism

10. “ Manifesto” Japan Lower House Election (August 30th, 2009) LDP DPJ Grant aid (3-5 years old) Children Children aid (-12 years old) about 250 $ /per month 2% growth in 2010 latter support small business by the gov support Economy Support small business by gov subsidy Rasing house income 10 thousand $/ year by the gov policy Wages Minimum Wages 10 $/ hour by the law

11. “ Manifesto” Japan Lower House Election (August 30th, 2009) “ Amakudari” ( 天下り） = government employee leave to go work in the private sector. Show the group consciousness in Japan LDP DPJ Up increase tax (after recovery) prohibit “Amakudari” Financial Prohibit “Amakudari”

13. American TV