Waseda University Podcasts: Rigorous Research, Real Impact
Waseda University Podcasts: Rigorous Research, Real Impact
Podcast Description
On “Rigorous Research, Real Impact”, seven knowledgeable Waseda University researchers active in the fields of the social sciences and the humanities casually converse with the MC about their recent, rigorously conducted research, the positive impact it has on society, and their thoughts on working in Japan at Waseda in short 15 to 30 minute episodes.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers a variety of topics such as gender diversity in executive roles, skilled migration policies, central bank digital currencies, cultural influences in fantasy gaming, and the effects of populism on democracy. For example, one episode discusses why women are increasingly appointed as Chief Human Relations Officers in the US while remaining underrepresented in other executive settings, and another explores the social constructs around skill in migration.
“Rigorous Research, Real Impact” showcases knowledgeable Waseda University researchers active in the fields of the social sciences and the humanities. From Season 3, which began streaming on Sept. 9, 2026, guests converse casually with charismatic Waseda student hosts about their areas of expertise. In short 15 to 20 minute episodes, they discuss how their research intersects with current social debates and trending news and talk about their experiences teaching in Waseda’s English-based degree programs.
How will automation, AI, and demographic change shape long-term economic growth? Host and Waseda student Kanon Kurabayashi explores this question with Professor Akihiko Kaneko of the Faculty of Political Science and Economics (FPSE). They discuss how technological advances interact with intergenerational transfers such as inheritance, and why the motives behind bequests can have significant implications for economic growth. Focusing on Japan’s aging population and shrinking workforce, Professor Kaneko considers how automation can support productivity while highlighting the importance of education and targeted retraining to address inequalities between workers. He also introduces English-based degree programs at Waseda, where students can explore global economic issues in a diverse, multilingual academic environment and build connections with peers from around the world.
About the Guest: Professor Akihiko Kaneko's research focuses on economic growth and policy, with particular interests in demographic change, population decline, fertility, international aid, and the relationship between political systems and economic development. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Osaka University.
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