Event Title: Women in Japanese Media: Understanding Objectification and Representation

Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025

Time: 1:15pm-3:00pm

Venue: Room 36, Hitotsubashi University West Campus Main Building 3F (一橋大学 西キャンパス 本館3階)  

Language: English

This event explores how women are objectified in Japanese media and society, inviting participants to think critically about the cultural and social factors behind this issue. The session will begin with a short introduction and the viewing of several controversial Japanese ads that have sparked public debate.

Our guest lecturer, Dr. Norma, a Senior Lecturer at RMIT University and Visiting Researcher at Hitotsubashi University, will then give a lecture on the objectification of women in Japan. Drawing on feminist perspectives, she will discuss the social impact of sexual representation in media, how objectification shapes gender roles and power relations, and why such portrayals can be harmful.

After the lecture, participants will join a group discussion to share their thoughts and deepen their understanding of the issues surrounding the representation of women in Japanese media.The event will close with a Q&A session, offering an opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Norma.

This event serves as an introduction to the topic and welcomes participants from all backgrounds. Prior knowledge is not required. It is open to all students, faculty, staff and external guests, and registration is not needed.

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Organizers: Hinako Kikuta, Kumiko Nagata, Asuka Tomonaga, Minami Wakamatsu (4th year students of the Planning and Implementation II AY 2025)