Chapter 1 provides background by introducing concepts of Confucianism and Confucian culture, and by emphasizing the diversity of the Confucian tradition as it evolved in different countries. It is suggested that approaches to competition law and policy in East Asian countries should be shaped and implemented in ways that respond adaptively and strategically to cultural factors. The characteristics of East Asian firms should also be taken into account for purposes of competition law and policy, not merely in the sense that particular vigilance is required, but also because it underlines the need for proactive and creative efforts to change cultural attitudes. The chapter suggests that existing attitudes and mental frames are not always aligned with the legal rules that appear on the books, and they may impede the emergence of cultural pre-conditions that could support or catalyse desirable legal and behavioural change. The chapter describes the various dimensions of Confucian cultural influences that are discussed in the substantive chapters of the book; and it outlines the structure of the book.

Even though Japan has a largely Westernized system of education, it is worth remembering that this country has a strong hierarchical Confucian tradition of master–student relationships. This relationship is underlined by the literal meaning of sensei, “the one born before,” as the honorific given to all teachers and professors. University lecturers enjoy significant autonomy, and there are no particular barriers to faculty integrating undergraduate research (UR) into the curriculum. It can be argued that the STEM areas in which Japan excels have historically created more opportunities for research, and that UR is already undertaken there, whether formally recognized or not. In the arts, humanities, and social sciences, students are required to write a graduation thesis or report under the guidance of their instructor.