PLT2860

America, Japan and China: Asian-Pacific competitors?

Andrew Perry

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton and Peninsula

Objectives On successful completion of this subject students should have an understanding of theories and practices concerning major trends in modern Asian-Pacific international relations; developed abilities to understand patterns of international trade politics and policy-making, especially in the USA, Japan and China.

Synopsis This subject examines the evolution of modern international relations in the Asian-Pacific region, giving particular emphasis to American, Japanese and Chinese interests and policies concerning trade, investment and foreign aid, with some reference also to `security' in a broader sense than in military terms alone. The subject studies how US, Japanese and Chinese governments and business groups have cooperated or conflicted with Australian, Korean and Southeast Asian politicians and trade negotiators, national and international central bankers, and major multinational companies involved in Asian-Pacific trade and finance. Reference will be made to the importance of nationalism and to ideas and theories of comparative advantage, interdependence, dependence, mercantilism and strategic trade. The subject does not require prior knowledge of the technicalities of international economics.

Assessment Essay (3000 words): 40%
* Tutorial attendance, presentation and participation: 10%
* Examination (3 hours): 50%

Recommended texts

Buckley R US- Japan alliance diplomacy 1945- 1990 CUP, 1992
Cohen S D Cowboys and Samurai Harper Business, 1991
Copper J F China diplomacy: The Washington- Taipei- Beijing triangle Westview, 1992
Harding H A fragile relationship: The United States and China since 1972 Brookings, 1992
Higgott R, Leaver R and Ravenhill J (eds) Pacific economic relations in the 1990s: Cooperation or conflict Allen and Unwin, 1993
Ross R (ed.) East Asia in transition Sharpe, 1995
Whiting A S China eyes Japan U California P, 1988