Is Japanese whaling based on national culture and tradition? Sociologist
Hiroyuki Watanabe challenges this question by examining the history of
whaling in modern Japan and looking at the wide range of arguments
within the country over the decades. The book provides a detailed
account of anti-whaling disturbances organized by fishermen in the early
20th century, presents successful attempts to designate whales as
protected species in pre-war years, and shows regional differences in
whale-meat eating practices. Through a sober and critical analysis of
the 'cultural' defense of Japan's whaling industry, the book reveals
that whaling has often been linked with Japanese expansionist policies
overseas. Watanabe also explores the relations between human beings and
whales and offers practical proposals.