Social Structure of Hamlet and Its Change during the Past Half Century―Cases of Two Hamlets

Abstract

　A hamlet in Japan is a primary group of independent, small-scale agricultural producers' households. Within the hamlet, farm households arrange various problems satisfactorily each other. The most important role of the hamlet is to consolidate agricultural production infrastructure and rural life.

　The development of commerce and industry throughout the nation has increased the number of part-time farm households and changed the life style of farmers. Concurrently, the government has promoted the adjustment of the agricultural infrastructure in the past two decades. What have these changes brought about in hamlet's activities?

　In two hamlets which were studied, social activity was active before the Second World War, stagnant from 1946 to 1959, and became active again after 1960. Changes brought about by industrialization have made these hamlets more active, because they faced an increasing number of social problems. However, hamlet gatherings have become more specialized, with the members and agenda being limited. The method of consolidating agricultural production infrastructure has also changed. Before the War, the hamlets usually did this through their own efforts. After the War, the government has come to play a more prominent role in these matters than the hamlet.

　The hamlets have also increased their contacts with outside organizations. Hamlet headships are now held by middle class farmers as well as by upper class ones. However, the hamlet's management is supported by joint labor service and principle of reciprocity amongst farmers as before.