End disputes through discussion instead of court. What is the little-known conflict resolution method 'ADR'? — 'Solved by Discussion!? What on Earth is ADR?' now on sale at bookstores nationwide.

Don't let conflicts escalate!

The power of discussion you should know before going to court.

'Solved by Discussion!? What on Earth is ADR?' (Author: Shigekatsu Takakuma*)

About this book

In Japan, "going to court" has long been assumed to be the natural means of resolving disputes and troubles.

But is that really the only option?

This book sheds light on a system little known in Japan called "Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)" and explains its significance and potential.

ADR is a method positioned as an alternative to, or alongside, litigation. It emphasizes reaching a resolution that both parties find acceptable through discussion, aiming for a "win-win solution" where both sides are satisfied, rather than a "winner-takes-all" outcome.

A particularly noteworthy point is that ADR is a resolution method that prioritizes "emotional satisfaction." While legal solutions are strong in material and formal aspects, ADR attends to the emotions and backgrounds of the parties involved. This is especially effective for problems close to daily life, such as family disputes, workplace conflicts, and contractual disagreements.

What is justice? What can truly be called a "resolution"?

This book does not merely introduce ADR as a system; it is a powerful call to action, intended to let every citizen know that "there are options other than court."

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: What is a conflict?

Chapter 2: Existentialism

Chapter 3: Public mediation and litigation

Chapter 4: The concept of 'Shozai' (initial existence) and 'Kozai' (subsequent existence)

Chapter 5: What is ADR?

Chapter 6: Japan's unique ADR laws

Chapter 7: The reality of ADR in foreign countries

Chapter 8: Judicial ADR, Administrative ADR, and Private ADR

Chapter 9: Techniques in the 'procedural expertise' of ADR

Chapter 10: Changes in Japanese social conditions, the evolution of the judiciary, and ADR

Chapter 11: What I am thinking about now after watching the NHK morning drama

Author Profile

Shigekatsu Takakuma

Born in Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, in 1939.

After graduating from university, he joined the special sales department of a famous home appliance manufacturer. There, he frequently interacted with top executives from department stores in the Kansai region (which were considered a barometer of the Japanese economy at the time) and major corporations, receiving various forms of guidance.

After retiring from the company, he joined the Administrative Scrivener Association, feeling it was the profession closest to the general public in civil matters. Within the association, he focused his activities on ADR.

He served as the Chairman of the Kinki Region Professional ADR Representative Conference (covering 2 prefectures and 4 prefectures) for 6 years, a member of the Steering Committee of the Comprehensive Dispute Resolution Center, a member of the Pension Record Confirmation Third-Party Committee (for six prefectures in the Kinki region and Fukui Prefecture), and a member of the Japan Association of Arbitrators and ADR, among other roles.

Book Information

'Solved by Discussion!? What on Earth is ADR?' Author: Shigekatsu Takakuma Publisher: Parade Release Date: March 30, 2026 ISBN: 978-4-434-37552-1 Specifications: Shinsho size / Paperback / 260 pages Price: 1,320 yen (tax included) Paradebooks URL: https://books.parade.co.jp/category/genre07/978-4-434-37552-1.html

Amazon URL: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/4434375520/

Publisher Information

The parent company, Parade Co., Ltd., is a design production company. With professional technology and knowledge, we provide total support for your book creation and publishing with excellent design and high quality.

Parade Books URL: https://www.p-press.jp TEL: 0120-123455 Mail: paradebooks@parade.co.jp

Parade Books Book Introduction URL: https://books.parade.co.jp

【Company Overview】 Trade Name: Parade Co., Ltd. Osaka Headquarters: 1-1-8 Ukita, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Tokyo Branch: 5F SHONENGAHO-1, 2-8-5 Nishikanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Representative Director: Naoki Harada Established: October 20, 1987 Capital: 40 million yen Business Content: Advertising planning/art direction, product development/package design, general graphic design, website planning/production, publishing business "Parade Books"