Introduction

Since it was established in 1991, the Center for Global Communication (GLOCOM) has actively pursued interdisciplinary research and projects, making numerous policy proposals, as a research institute for social sciences that aims to be a leading intelprise. We are proud of the significant role the Center has played over the past decade, a period during which the Internet became firmly entrenched as a part of society. As we move into the 21st century, the Internet is now in widespread use and people are aware that an information society has emerged that clearly differs from the industrialized society.

Recognizing this, GLOCOM has sought to renew its research organization with two initiatives.

The first initiative has been to achieve a major generational shift in our researchers, in a younger direction. Although researchers in their 30s and 40s remain at the core, young researchers in the 20s are given front-line assignments to explore the realities of information society, making use of their youthful energy and inquisitive minds.

Our second approach has been to create a two-tiered organization for the Center. The first layer is referred to as the “research platform” layer, which is in charge of new investments and space for research, as well as supporting activities. The second layer is the “research activity” layer, where research group leaders are tapped from inside and outside the University, to plan and execute research projects that use the resources of the platform divisions. Networks for collaboration with outside research organizations are also being formed, to further develop the research bases of GLOCOM.

The research activities of GLOCOM center on interdisciplinary and integral studies concerning different aspects of the information society, which are collectively referred to as “info-socionomics.” In conducting this research, GLOCOM is maintaining close ties with the Info-Socionomics Association. Today, there are two major focuses in info-socionomics research. The first concerns the features and issues involved with the new social order expected to emerge in the information society. The second focus is to follow-up and support the activism of netizens that is being exhibited on net forums, in net communities and in different parts of the country.

We plan to build broad and flexible collaborative networks with those who understand and sympathize with our intentions. We hope that we can count on your support as we pursue this initiative.

Shumpei Kumon,

Executive Director