Postgraduate - UnitAPG4382 - Contemporary issues in Asia

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Notes

Synopsis

This unit explores the dramatic transformations that have defined the Aian region in the post-colonial period. The most fundamental change has been the shift of large agrarian societies from their rural base into industrial modes of production and the habit of living in cities. This massive migration of people has had important consequences for technological change, political stability, social inequalities, cultural heritage and the environment. We examine how the old balances of power amongst the political, business and religious elites of Asia are changing and how Asia itself is challenging the nature of world leadership. Our approach includes analysing the shifting realities at the level of mega-cities, towns and villages.

Outcomes

1. To familiarise students with the major transformations of Asian politics, society, culture and economy since 1950;
2. To develop an in-depth understanding of the complexity of these processes and the contradictions of modernity in various country cases studies including India, China, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia and others;
3. To expose students to world class authors and scholars who have written about these issues and have an intimate knowledge of the forces of change;
4. To encourage students to appreciate the important of multi-dimensonal changes and apply multi-disciplinary approaches to their study of Asia;
5. To promote the analytial abilities of students in their written and oral work

Assessment

Written work (including exam): 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Jeremy Breaden

Contact hours

One 1-hour lecture
one 2-hour seminar per week