At the Graduate School of Law, in order to grasp the complex social phenomena in a society that is becoming increasingly globalized and borderless, faculty members and graduate students from diverse fields of expertise work together every day to cultivate perspectives from related and peripheral areas, while also focusing on their own areas of specialization. We find meaning in the pursuit of "truth" by thoroughly examining the differences in benefits resulting from solutions based on different interpretations, integrating various vectors related to problem solving, developing logical thinking skills and a sense of balance, and possessing a high aspiration and passionate commitment to contributing to the realization of social justice.
*This information and wording are based on the interview conducted in 2023.
Because this is research into a new area of crime, I want you to emphasize its connection to real society.
Shikata : I worked as a police bureaucrat for nearly 30 years and have been a teacher for about 6 years, but it is rare to find someone like Ms. Zhao who studied criminal psychology in graduate school and then moved on to research in the fields of law and criminal policy.
Zhao : I first learned about Professor Shikata when I was studying criminal psychology at Waseda University Graduate School. I was introduced to Professor Shikata when I became interested in cybercrime, and I met him for the first time before taking the entrance exam for the Graduate School of Law.
Shikata : My first impression was that he was very ambitious and dedicated to his studies. There are few researchers who approach cybercrime from a legal or criminological perspective, so I had high expectations for him.
Zhao : I've been researching dating apps since I was studying criminal psychology, but it used to be difficult to connect them to crime victimization. Under Professor Shikata's guidance, I was finally able to conduct research from the perspective of investigating the realities of victims and crime prevention.
Shikata : Cybercrime can be broadly divided into two or three categories: technical crimes such as ransomware, and crimes in which vulnerable people such as children and women are caught up in crimes via the internet. Dating apps fall into the latter category, but there is still little prior research on them, isn't there?
Zhao : There isn't much data available in Japan or South Korea, and we're mainly referring to overseas research. We're currently collecting data by conducting surveys and interviews as advised by the professor, analyzing trends from news reports, and also by seeking cooperation from organizations that support victims of sexual assault.
Shikata : It might be good to leverage Ms. Zhao's international background and add a global perspective. Also, criminal policy lies at the boundary between law and criminology, and it is a field where connections with society are important. It would be good if she could also utilize the empirical data analysis skills she cultivated in psychology. I hope she will cherish her attitude of facing reality and solving problems.
Zhao : Since coming to work under you, I've been able to participate in many research projects and academic conferences, and I've received advice and inspiration from various professors. Of course, I want to incorporate all of your advice into my research. I've taken thorough notes on what you've just said, and I'll put it to good use in my future research.
Graduate student, Zhao Eun-kyung
Affiliation: Graduate School of Law, Criminal Law Major, Master's Program
Research Topic: Research on the reality of harm caused by the use of dating apps and countermeasures.
My motivation for pursuing graduate studies: I chose Chuo University Graduate School because Professor Shikata, an expert in cybercrime, is affiliated with the university, and I wanted to conduct research on cybercrime.
Faculty Professor Hikaru Shikata
Specialization: Criminal Law, Social Security Policy
Research Keywords: Cybercrime, Recidivism Prevention Measures, Social Security Policy
Research topic: Cybercrime and recidivism prevention
