Interpreting 'Asia' and the 'Pacific'

This unit of study examines social and political issues in contemporary Asia and the Pacific, two socially and politically diverse and dynamic regions requiring up to date survey and analysis. Key debates within the regions are analysed, including debates about culture and identity; questions about development; and the disparities of wealth and poverty. Nation-states in these regions are studied comparatively while the place of the region in the globe is also considered, recognising in particular, competing interests of outside powers in the Pacific. Global factors examined include changes to work, commodity chains and human mobility influenced by severe climate change and rapidly moving social, economic and political dynamics as nations seek to pursue sustainable economic, social and environmental development. Finally, the unit interrogates some of the ways that ‘Asia’ and 'Pacific’ scholars consider and critique relationships with Australia.