GES3710

Southeast Asian geography

Not offered in 1999

Dr Gale Dixon

12 points - 3 hours per week (two 1-hour lectures, one 1-hour practical) - Second semester - Clayton

Objectives On completion of this subject students should be able todemonstrate an understanding of the contribution of the major subdisciplines of biogeography, climatology, economic geography, geomorphology and historical geography to an understanding of Southeast Asia, be able to demonstrate an understanding of the enduring qualities and the current preoccupations of the region, and have an appreciation of the alternative approaches to understanding Southeast Asia.

Synopsis This subject examines the unique character of the region from Burma to the Philippines and from northern Vietnam to Irian Jaya. Of particular concern are the influences of the South Asian, Chinese and European cultural infusions upon the indigenous peoples, and the ways in which blending of cultures helps explain the rich variety of the region. Emphasis is also given to differences in social and economic development in the recent past. In order to complement the work students are undertaking in other courses, considerable latitude in essay topics and tutorial readings is allowed.

Assessment Written (5500 words): 70% - Examinations (2 hours): 20% - Tutorial: 10% - Students doing this subject at third-year level will be expected to complete work of a higher standard than at second-year level.

Recommended texts

Far Eastern Economic Review Asia 1998 Yearbook FEER, 1998
Fein J S and Stephens P L (eds) Monsoons Wiley, 1987
Forbes D Asian metropolis: Urbanisation in Southeast Asia OUP, 1996
Fryer D W Emerging Southeast Asia 2nd edn, Philip, 1979
Lipton M and Longhurst R New seeds and poor people Unwin Hyman, 1989
Rigg J Southeast Asia: A region in transition Unwin Hyman, 1991

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