IN THE BUSINESS OF CULTURAL REPRODUCTION: THEORETICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE MAIL-ORDER BRIDE PHENOMENON

Abstract This article attempts to draw out the theoretical implications of the Mail-Order Brides phenomenon at the levels of state, family, and civil society, and thus provides an analytical framework for understanding the crossnational transfer of Mail-Order Brides (MOBs) as reproductive workers. It will first provide some theoretical explanations for understanding gender relations in connection with the MOB system. The article will then discuss the unique aspect of MOBs as one diversified form of today's international female migration in the context of reproductive labor. Finally, the implications of new political possibilities that women's social agency including MOBs as actors may evoke in order to restructure the patriarchal order will be addressed. The case of Japan will be employed to highlight the main issues and problems concerned.