Political Economy of Asia

Subject ASIA40001 (2013)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2013.

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

This subject is not offered in 2013.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: A 2-hour seminar per week
Total Time Commitment: 2 contact hours/week , 8 additional hours/week. Total of 8.5 hours per week.
Prerequisites: None.
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 Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.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:

None.
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.

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