Factors influencing the relative industrial performance of Japan, Germany, USA and UK. III. The changing scene and conclusions

This is the last of a series of three articles in which the author explores some of the underlying factors which have continued to influence competitive performance. Social cohesion has been significant factor in the post-war success of Germany and Japan. It has deep roots in Japan, perhaps less so in Germany, but it has been sufficiently embedded there, after the destructive effects of two world wars, to be a powerful force. Both countries have attempted to encourage it by somewhat different routes, but the lesson that has emerged is that, in the longer run, it cannot be bought. It is extremely unlikely that it could replace the more adversarial societies of the USA and the UK, or that the UK should, on balance, gain from it, but that is not to say it should avoid recognising and moving towards key elements which have aided economic growth in Japan and Germany, while at the same time avoiding their mistakes.<>