Book Review – Forces of Order: Policing Modern Japan

Half of the review should be dedicated to a summary of the main ideas and arguments made by each chapter of the book. For example, you should identify the author’s (1) thesis; (2) evidence to support his/her thesis; and (3) conclusion. This should be the first 3 pages of writing.

The second half should be dedicated to the analysis of the credibility of the author’s argument (strengths and weaknesses). Your critical review may include a statement about what the author has tried to do, how well the author has succeeded to persuade readers, and how well the author has presented social science evidence to support the assessment. Be sure to use critical thinking for this second part of the assignment. This should be about 3 pages of writing.

The following are some questions you may want to address in your critique:

Do you agree (or disagree) with the author(s)? Why or Why not? Again, provide social science-based evidence to support your argument (e.g., in contrast to or in comparison with the research of others). Do NOT rely upon ONLY opinion for this question. Use in-text citations within your paragraphs.
What has the book accomplished? Does the author cover the subject adequately?
Did you find any biases from the author’s arguments? What are the strength and weaknesses of the author’s argument?
How does the author support his or her argument? What evidence does the author use to prove his or her point? Is the evidence based on an appropriate application of the method chosen to gather information? Do you find that evidence convincing? Why or why not? Are there facts and evidence that have been omitted? What other empirical studies can you discuss?
Are the size of the sample, the method of sample selection, the research tool, the period of the study, the major characteristics of the sample well described in the book?
Does the argument make sense to you? Does it persuade you? Why or why not?
How has this book helped you understand the research problem?
What has been left out? What are the limitations of the study? Does the book bring attention to the need for further research?
The paper must be well written and a well-integrated review of the readings to date in the course. You will be evaluated on your ability to clearly communicate the thesis of the book and the relevant issues related to the topic.
Sources: 7 required (2 from articles, 2 from outside scholarly sources, 3 from text)
Need 6 pages excluding reference page