Good afternoon, dear AJPOR Board Members,[1]
Before we begin our 2024 AJPOR annual board meeting, I want to take a moment to express our shared sorrow and pay tribute to a remarkable individual. It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the tragic passing of Professor Takashi Inoguchi on the evening of November 27, 2024, in a devastating fire at his apartment building in Bunkyo, Tokyo. Alongside him, his beloved 33-year-old daughter also lost her life. This heartbreaking loss has left us in deep shock and mourning, as we remember a brilliant scholar, a devoted family man, and a cherished mentor.
Today, we come together with heavy hearts, but also with immense gratitude, to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Professor Takashi Inoguchi—a founding member of the Asian Network for Public Opinion Research (ANPOR) and the Asian Journal for Public Opinion Research (AJPOR).
Professor Inoguchi’s contributions to the academic world are unparalleled. As a visionary leader, he profoundly shaped the study of political science, public opinion, and international relations in Asia and beyond. Among his many achievements, his pioneering cross-country research on the quality of life across 12 nations stands out as a landmark accomplishment. This groundbreaking work, published in the very first issue of AJPOR, set a high standard for collaborative, impactful research and remains widely cited to this day, underscoring its enduring relevance and influence in the academic community.
In addition to his scholarly contributions, Professor Inoguchi played a pivotal role in building and nurturing a strong community of scholars. His leadership in hosting the second ANPOR Annual Conference in Niigata in 2014 was instrumental in strengthening ANPOR’s mission. Through his vision and efforts, Niigata became a vibrant hub for intellectual exchange, bringing together researchers from across Asia and the world. The success of that conference stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to advancing public opinion research and fostering collaboration.
Throughout his remarkable career, Professor Inoguchi served as Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo and as President of the University of Niigata Prefecture, authoring over 100 books and countless influential articles. His work bridged Asian and global perspectives, advancing knowledge and influencing policy while setting an example for excellence in scholarship.
Yet, beyond these accolades, Professor Inoguchi will be remembered most for his kindness, generosity, and mentorship. He believed deeply in nurturing the next generation of researchers, and his encouragement and guidance have left an indelible mark on many of us here today. His warmth and wisdom transformed lives and careers, inspiring us to pursue a rigorous and meaningful scholarship.
The loss of Professor Inoguchi and his daughter is truly devastating, a stark reminder of the fragility of life. Yet, even as we grieve, we must celebrate the profound and lasting impact of his work, his leadership, and his vision. His legacy will live on through ANPOR, AJPOR, and the countless individuals and institutions he inspired. Every step we take to advance public opinion research, every connection we make as scholars, is a continuation of the foundation he built with such care and dedication.
On behalf of ANPOR, AJPOR, and the broader academic community, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. Though his passing is an irreplaceable loss, his brilliance, vision, and unwavering commitment to scholarship will guide and inspire us for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Professor Takashi Inoguchi and your daughter too. Your legacy will forever remain in our hearts and minds, and your influence will continue to inspire us to strive for excellence.
Thank you.
Jantima Kheokao, PhD
President, Asian Network for Public Opinion Research
December 17, 2024
This is a republished version of the eulogy reading to honor the passing of Professor Dr. Takashi Inoguchi before the start of the AJPOR Editorial Board Meeting “About AJPOR – Past and Future” on December 17, 2024.