The objective of the present research is to shed light on the mechanisms of modern societies and organizations by reexamining Masao Maruyama’s concept of the structure of irresponsibility (無責任の体系). Maruyama developed the concept while arguing that the structure of irresponsibility was a unique social process that happened only in Japan.

Various sociological theories were used to analyze modern bureaucratic structures with the arguments used by Maruyama to develop the concept of structure of irresponsibility. Specifically, it was compared to Ian Kershaw’s concept of the absent dictator that describes Germany’s bureaucratic structures during the context of WW2.

The outcomes of the present research can be divided broadly into two parts: 1) discussions began with researchers in Germany to establish a possible joint research project and 2) a research paper will be presented in the Theory section of the International Sociological Association in 2021.