London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Modules

90
International politics of East Asia

Prerequisite – 11 Introduction to international relations

This subject is concerned with the question of the bases of conflict and co-operation in this region where the interests of the only global power, the United States, intersect with those of the two regional powers of global significance, China and Japan, and with those of the smaller East Asian states. Contemporary approaches to regionalism will be considered within the context of the historical evolution of East Asian politics since the end of the Pacific War.

The first part will examine the character of the region, its historical evolution and the junction between the advent of new states and regimes in the region and international politics.

The second part will consider the impact of the great powers by examining the policies of each of the great powers (including the Soviet Union/Russia).

The third will explore the nature of regional politics and, finally, attention will be given to the problems of establishing regional order after the end of the Cold War.