Innovation Ecosystems and the Humanities and Social Sciences in Japan: A review of historical developments in the formation of disciplinary science and technology innovation ecosystems and governance for Responsible Research and Innovation

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between humanities, social sciences, and regional innovation in Japan, detailing the structural dynamics of technological governance in sectors such as manufacturing industry, agriculture, and healthcare. It traces the historical development of policy frameworks from the Meiji period and analyzes post-war industrial location strategies that evolved into regional innovation ecosystems, highlighting the emergence of key policy concepts, such as priority setting.

The paper also describes a movement towards Responsible Research and Innovation integrating the humanities and social sciences, particularly within Niigata University's Research Centre on Emerging Technology and Governance, Institute of Research Promotion. This center advocates the integration of Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) into a Convergence Knowledge platform, showcasing how comprehensive universities can adapt and transform in response to societal needs by anticipating vulnerabilities.