PLSC 222 - Politics of East Asia

Credit(s): 3
Lecture: 3
Non-Lecture: 0
This course examines the domestic and international politics of East Asia. How have historical and political factors shaped such varied polities, including a communist country contending with massive socioeconomic and political change and a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system? How successful have the countries of the region been in addressing the political and socioeconomic aspirations of their populations? Which countries have emerged as regional or global powers, and with what effect on the international system? Two major Asian powers, China and Japan, are studied in detail, and the considerable diversity of the region is explored through additional country studies. In addition, each student has the opportunity to pursue study of a pertinent topic of special interest throughout the individual project requirement. The course does not presuppose prior knowledge of East Asian history and politics. Offered every year.