The dominant role played by the state in the financing, regulation, and provision of primary and secondary education reflects the widely-held belief that education is necessary for personal and societal well-being. The economic organization of education depends on political as well as market...

1. Rising higher income inequality in Japan and elsewhere -- 2. History of income distribution in postwar Japan -- 3. Causes of rising inequality -- 4. Wealth distribution and intergenerational transfers -- 5. Equality of opportunity and equality of outcome -- 6. Policy recommendations for some...