This thesis analyses the unlikelihood of the militarization of Japanese energy policy as predicted by neorealism. Using a constructivist approach this thesis argues that Japanese strategic culture since the Second World War impedes any tendency towards using military force to secure energy resources. Cultural norms of anti-militarism and economism ensure that energy security remains solely an issue of economic policy. Rather than militarization, the Japanese domestic debate over energy security hinges on government intervention in the marketplace. After the energy crises of the 1970s the Japanese government used its diplomatic and economic power to intervene in the market. As energy prices fell during the 1990s government intervention relaxed. In light of recent price increases the Japanese government is once again taking an interventionist approach. The thesis concludes with a call for future research that considers the perspectives of other Asian countries, particularly China.;Key words: Japanese energy policy, security policy, energy security, alternative security, constructivism, strategic culture
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