Knowledge Society and Demographic Change in Japan

 Japan has a rapidly aging population, and is characterised by its transfer to a knowledge-centred economy. However, the spread of technology and know-how between civil society and the economy is by no means equal. The aim of this study is to understand the impact of demographic change on the transfer mechanisms for knowledge between different spheres of society. The question is: Are new life and career patterns emerging in which persons transfer knowledge by moving between industry and civil society?
Based on the existing literature, we develop hypotheses and use questionnaires and expert hearings to detect transfer routes of useful knowledge between both spheres, and to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of such an exchange.

The Questionnaire

Our hypotheses are that knowledge is transferred from enterprises into the civil society and that civil society organisations offer a meaningful alternative for those who leave enterprises. Finally, we suppose that enterprises are interested in keeping their knowledge, and possibly in acquiring further knowledge from civil society sources. The theoretical background can be found in our working paper, which is available for download below

The intermediary report gives first results.