Takashi Tachibana (journalist)
Takashi Tachibana (立花 隆, Tachibana Takashi, May 28, 1940 – April 30, 2021) was a prominent Japanese journalist and nonfiction writer known for his in-depth investigative reporting, particularly in the fields of politics, science, and medicine. He was considered a pioneer of investigative journalism in Japan, often tackling complex and controversial topics with meticulous research and a critical eye.
Tachibana graduated from the University of Tokyo with a degree in French literature, but abandoned a planned academic career to become a journalist. He initially worked at Bungei Shunju, a leading Japanese literary magazine, before becoming a freelance journalist in 1974.
He gained widespread recognition for his reporting on the Lockheed scandal in the 1970s, which implicated high-ranking Japanese politicians in bribery. His articles on the topic were instrumental in bringing the scandal to light and contributed to the downfall of Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka.
Beyond political scandals, Tachibana's interests were wide-ranging. He wrote extensively about the human brain, exploring consciousness, memory, and artificial intelligence. He also delved into topics such as alternative medicine, cancer treatment, and the history of science.
His writing style was characterized by thorough research, clear explanations of complex subjects, and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. He conducted numerous interviews and engaged in extensive fieldwork to gather information for his articles and books.
Some of his notable works include:
- Nihon kyosanto no kenkyu (The Study of the Japanese Communist Party)
- Nou wo tamesu (Testing the Brain)
- Uchuu kara no kikan (Return from Space) - about astronaut Mamoru Mohri
- Tachi Bana Shiki Ronkyo Shuyo Shinryoho (Takashi Tachibana's Rational Cancer Treatment)
Takashi Tachibana's work significantly influenced Japanese journalism and nonfiction writing. He received numerous awards for his contributions, including the Kikuchi Kan Prize. He remained an influential voice in Japanese society until his death in 2021.