Gordon Steel
Student, 20
From an economic point of view, perhaps, but from a political, international relations point of view, no. Japan isn't much of a player unless they need resources. When it comes to international incidents they tend to play a minor role. Japan's star is falling and they don't get involved enough.

Mikiko Nagatomo
Pharmaceuticals, 25
I would say no, because if Japan says yes then there's going to be problems later on -- Japan will have to send out troops to other countries.

Kaori Yokomizu
Teacher, 29
No, because now I think that the U.S. protects our country -- that's a good way to go because all the members of the Security Council have nuclear weapons. We shouldn't have nuclear weapons because of our bad experiences.

Tom Laurence
Student, 31
Yeah. I don't see why not. Japan is a social and economic power. I think it's appropriate for a country of their status to be properly represented. It's a friendly country that doesn't seem to have ulterior motives.

Keith Glassor
Finance, 34
Yes, because it's the second largest economy, with the second largest military in terms of spending. Another reason it should be on the council is evolving Asian politics, specifically the situations in China, North Korea and India and Pakistan.

Pat McCoy
Lecturer, 35
I don't really see why not. Japan is an economic power. Even though they don't have a fully active military. But as an economic leader I'm sure they could contribute something.