In a world where complex and difficult problems threaten human society in unprecedented ways, a fundamental reevaluation of human nature has become necessary. A rethinking, properly conducted, would provide a deeper understanding of the relationship of all individuals to themselves, to their community, to their nation, to the world, and to the environment around them. Only then could humanity realize, for the first time ever, its full potential, with civilization advancing to a new and higher stage. But as I thought about these great challenges and great opportunities, I realized that this search for a new philosophy of peace and prosperity requires, leaders of great vision and ability, who would be capable of implementing these new ideals. Since so many of the world's and Japan's problems can be attributed to the lack of a clear, future-oriented perspective and of a long-term national and global policy, it seemed to me urgently necessary to begin fostering talented and promising young people capable of assuming the responsibility for these great tasks. Surely, neither the world at large nor Japan in particular, have done enough in this regard previously. Despite Japan's emergence as a world economic and technological power, it is hard to say that it has contributed enough to the prosperity of mankind and to the development of the world community. Behind Japan's material prosperity, it seemed to me, lay much confusion in the area of social and cultural values and morality. Matters could only get worse, given the nation's lack of the political power and social influence commensurate with its economic strength. For these reasons, I decided to establish the Matsushita School of Government and Management, in order to give talented young persons the opportunity to realize a better future for themselves, for Japan, and for the world. This would be a place where the leaders of the future could create clear national and international policies, as well as the programs for their realization, to bring lasting benefit to the citizens of Japan and the world. These are daunting tasks, but in the years since the School's establishment in 1980, as our first graduates begin to make their way in the larger world, I can only remain firmly convinced of the need for the type of leadership education that the Matsushita School of Government and Management provides. * The Matsushita School of Government and Management changed its name to "The Matsushita Institute of Government and Management" in 1990.