점령기 GHQ에 의한 지역공동체 인식과 재편 - 조나이카이(町内会)를 중심으로 -

Abstract

This research was conducted to shed light on why GHQ used Chōnai-kai (neighborhood associations) once again as a mobilization instrument for governance during the occupation, given their essential position as the lowest administrative body under the total mobilization system throughout the wartime period. In addition, this article examines which aspects of Chōnai-kai were abolished and which were maintained. To achieve this objective, the perspective of Chōnai-kai by the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) at the end of the war and GHQ during the occupation period was investigated. Due to the emergence of reverse course, the resurgence of bureaucratic forces as a support foundation for this policy was also investigated. Additionally, the rearrangement of the old Chōnai-kai into the new Chōnai-kai in the local community was investigated. As a result of the analysis, the empowerment of Chōnai-kai in local politics was identified as a reform priority as part of the democratization measures. However, GHQ utilized and maintained Chōnai-kai's community maintenance function. In the end, Chōnai-kai was the lowest administrative body, and its identity and function remained the same from wartime to the occupation period, with only the Japanese government being replaced by the GHQ. The occupation period coincides with the transition from Empire to Post-Empire. In the end, Chōnai-kai was resurrected as a new Chōnai-kai in the midway zone between power and life, and it continues to exist up to the present day.