Is globalization destroying regional culture? How will people’s sense of place change among increasing migration and movement? Tourism is credited for improving intercultural understanding and contributing to the preservation of nature and culture. However, isn’t there a danger of destroying the environment and turning culture into a mere spectacle? To tackle these questions, we will nurture the ability to discuss the relations between people and culture in a global society, between tourism and local communities, between thought and culture, and between Japanese culture and the world.

Do we all equally receive benefits from globalization? Could it be that, as the society is globalizing, the differences in world views, and values, and the conflicts relevant to economic profits and political predominance will increase? We need to overcome such issues with the collective wisdom of the human race and mutual understanding in order to establish world peace. In IGS, you will explore backgrounds and causes underlying such conflicts and appreciate differences among diversified culture and language groups. Such skills are necessary in order for us to live in peaceful and harmonious society. 

Are you keen to make a contribution to solve the current environmental problems we are now facing? Are you willing to learn how to create more effective ways to use our limited resources and energy? In order to pursue these important objectives, you need not only have broad knowledge of the natural sciences, but also have knowledge of social sciences, economics, and the environmental sciences. In IGS, you will learn the connection between these subjects and will seek new ways to bridge human society and the natural environment.