Well this thread went places. Speaking from the perspective of a 4th generation Japanese American, I wouldn't really want the United States to emulate Japanese socio-economic policies, nor do I think that they would work in an American context.
Japan as a country has numerous problems, which includes its mistreatment of women, the rigid social structure, stagnant economy, inactive voter base, and hostility towards immigrants or individuals who are not "native" Japanese. The country is insular and ethnically homogeneous, though truthfully numerous European countries could also be described as such.
The United States, in contrast, has been historically defined by numerous waves of immigration and is much more ethnically diverse, especially in metropolitan areas along the coasts. Within the American context, immigrants are generally treated very badly before they achieve a measure of acceptance through assimilation.
However, as more ethnic and social minority groups make headway, the more push back you get from those in established positions of power. The Republican party has specifically designed its message to appeal to these individuals (e.g. white, male, wealthy, straight, Christian) and so a "return" to a homogeneous society where these groups remain firmly in control would doubtless be appealing to them.
