Political Economy of Asia

Subject 110-498 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 4 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2009.
Time Commitment: Total Time Commitment: 2 contact hours/week , 8 additional hours/week. Total of 8.5 hours per week.
Prerequisites: Admission to the Master of Arts (Asian Societies) or permission of the coordinator
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Contact

To Be Advised
Subject Overview: This subject will examine the theoretical models that have been foremost in the analysis of political economics; in particular, that of postcolonial Asia. Those models will then be applied to a study of Asia's politicoeconomic problems in order to construct a framework for an understanding of current conditions. From a theoretical basis, the subject will move to a case study approach in order to illuminate specific origins of problems and their consequences, and to consider solutions. Aspects of the political economy to be covered are: postcolonial inheritances; agricultural and industrial systems; the role of government in commerce; the influence of political policies on wealth and its distribution; democracy and its manifestations; the interaction between government and governed; models of nationhood, including the nation state. Tensions and challenges posed by Western expectations will be examined. While case studies will be drawn from a cross section of the region, Indonesia, China, Japan, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, the theoretical and analytical approaches will provide background for all students of political economy.
Objectives:
  • examine critically theories of political economy;
  • apply these theories analytically to countries of Asia;
  • demonstrate an overview of political-economic issues facing Asia;
  • have an ability to evaluate research and professional literature concerning contemporary Asia;
  • have a capacity to articulate their findings and views in oral and written presentations;
  • have an advanced understanding of major issues and sensitivities regarding contemporary Asia;
  • have a capacity to engage where appropriate with issues to do with contemporary Asia.
Assessment: A 2 hour written exam 40% (mid-semester), final paper 3000 words 50% (end of semester) and class participation 10%
Prescribed Texts:
Recommended Texts: Materials prepared by the Institute.
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:
  • acquire written communication skills through essay writing and seminar discussion
Notes: Previously available as 110-551 . Students who have completed 110-551 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.
Related Course(s): Master of Arts (Asian Societies)
Master of Public Policy and Management (Coursework)

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