Abstract
Whilst the basic function of data archives is to collect, store, and provide micro-data, a more important function is to provide researchers with an opportunity to 'reproduce' analysis of past empirical research through secondary analysis. Japan produces a large number of social surveys, which are carried out not only by academics but also by various organisations such as newspaper companies and government agencies. Despite the country's being a 'social survey giant', data often disappeared after the publication of papers and reports. Until recently, there was no system which acquired, curated, and stored data, or provided data for secondary analysis. This article illustrates the social importance of depositing data for those who wish to conduct secondary analysis, and the role of data archives, focusing in particular on the aims and goals of the Social Sciences Japan Data Archive (SSJDA) managed by the Center for Social Research and Data Archives, Institute for Social Science, University of Tokyo.
