Message from the President
The Japanese Society of Insurance Science (JSIS) is among the most venerable and esteemed academic research organizations in the field of social sciences in Japan. The subject of our research, insurance, traces its origins to the flourishing trade of the ancient Orient. Over time, insurance has evolved from maritime adventure loans to the various forms of modern insurance starting from marine and fire, and over time to life and automobile insurance. In Japan, the introduction of insurance is attributed to Yukichi Fukuzawa, who first referenced it as “the undertaking of calamities” in his 1867 book Seiyo Tabi Annai (Guide to travel in the western world). The nation’s first insurance company was established in 1879.
The predecessor of JSIS, the “Insurance Society” was established in 1895. In 1940, it was reorganized under its current name, marking a new chapter in its history. In 2025, JSIS will be commemorating the 130th anniversary of its predecessor’s founding and the 85th anniversary since its reorganization. Over its distinguished history, the Society has consistently grown and evolved, reflecting its enduring commitment to advancing the field of insurance science. Today, JSIS comprises of approximately 700 regular members, including around 200 researchers and 500 practitioners, as well as 90 supporting institutional members.
JSIS serves as an academic institution dedicated to advancing insurance research, fostering collaboration among insurance scholars, and facilitating interactions with related academic organizations both domestically and internationally. To fulfill these objectives, the Society undertakes three principal activities:
1. Annual Conference and Regional Meetings
The primary activity of JSIS is its annual conference, typically held in October, alongside regular meetings organized by its three regional chapters: the Kanto Chapter, the Kansai Chapter, and the Kyushu Chapter. These gatherings bring together members, comprising of researchers and practitioners in the fields of law, economics, and commerce, to engage in cross-disciplinary discussions on insurance-related issues.
2. Publication of the Journal of Insurance Science
The Journal of Insurance Science has a distinguished lineage, originating from the Monthly Insurance Journal initiated by the predecessor “Insurance Society” in 1895. In 2025, the journal will celebrate 130 years of continuous publication. Employing a rigorous peer-review system, the journal strives to disseminate high-caliber research findings and maintain its reputation as a premier academic resource in the field.
3. Enhancement of International Engagement
The Society actively promotes global exchange through its affiliation with organizations such as AIDA (Association Internationale de Droit des Assurances) and APRIA (Asia-Pacific Risk and Insurance Association). Board members regularly participate in international conferences, and efforts are underway to encourage Society members to present at global forums. Additionally, the Society supports young researchers in contributing to international academic journals and conferences to expand scholarly exchanges and elevate their global standing.
Through these endeavors, JSIS aims to achieve worldwide recognition for its academic contributions.
Looking ahead, we are committed to fostering collaborations with insurance practitioners and addressing emerging challenges to ensure the continuous evolution of our discipline. We warmly invite individuals from diverse backgrounds to join the Society and contribute to the advancement of insurance studies. Your support and cooperation are invaluable as we pursue our shared mission.
November 17, 2024
Tadao Koezuka
President, The Japanese Society of Insurance Science
Professor, Waseda University School of Law