[About the Book]

ーHow should we live in the coming era?-

“The aim of this book is to spark a vigorous national debate on the creation of a new civilization by presenting contemporary issues and possible solutions-particularly to the younger generation-from the standpoint of wishing for the growth and development of civil society in Japan.”

ーFrom the text

The author, a former Japanese diplomat who served as Ambassador to Switzerland, has long referred to himself as a “representative of future generations.” In this work, he addresses pressing challenges faced by modern society-such as environmental degradation, economic supremacism, and the crisis of civilization-and explores how we should confront these problems and guide them toward resolution.

A must-read for the younger generation who will inherit the future, this book serves as a vital compass for thinking about how to navigate the age ahead.



[Table of Contents]

Preface

Part 1 The Piled-Up Problems

Part 2 Approaches to the Issues

Part 3 Solving the Problems-Toward a New Civilization

Lecture Record of the Author (January 20, 2000)

Reference Section

Afterword



[Editor’s Comment]

Although this book was written around 25 years ago, today’s global situation reveals just how accurately the author foresaw the near future. Drawing from his deep insights as a diplomat, the author offers a thoughtful reflection on what lies ahead, making this work not only a check on his earlier predictions but also an opportunity to reexamine the social issues we continue to face. It is a book that deserves to be read by many.