Japan is not only a fascinating culture and economic power, its role is vital in global affairs - if only economically and financially. Since World War II, Japan as emerged as a leading economic giant - the world's second largest GDP in 2008 - while remaining, relatively, a political dwarf. In this comprehensive study, the authors analyze the transformation of Japan since Hiroshima and offer an examination of the global context including the relationship with the United States, with China, with the Koreas and with the ASEAN States. "Japan on the Edge" brings forth very specific and critical questions, such as "will Japan decide to acquire atomic weapons?" and "what are the chances of Japan becoming a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council?" "Japan on the Edge" also documents concerning aspects, notably demographic and economic decline.