Asian Studies: Development Theories and Issues in East and South-East Asia

<p>How has Asia moved from “miracle” growth stories to today’s complex development challenges? In this course, you explore competing ideas and ways of theorising development, and discuss the implications of contemporary development regimes in East and Southeast Asia.</p><p>This course introduces you to key academic theories of socio-economic development and grounds them in practical examples from East and Southeast Asia. In recent decades, the region has seen rapid (and historically unprecedented) growth and social change, but also inequality, environmental pressures, and political struggles. As such, the region provides us with an ideal lens for viewing and thinking through key issues in development.<br/></p><p>You study different approaches to development, from modernisation and neoliberalism to neo-Marxist and post-development perspectives. You also examine the role of history, politics, and global actors in shaping the present in the Asian context.<br/></p><p>Case studies will guide you through real-world issues such as climate change, poverty reduction, gender and development, and the impact of international organisations, and NGOs. By comparing theories with practice, you will learn to question established thinking on how development unfolds, identify contradictions, and reflect on future challenges for the region and beyond.</p>