China and Asia -- Observation. Research. Comment

Author: Pang Zhongying
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: Asia is a region of outstanding diversity. Many people, especially those with Western-centric views, have traditionally regarded Asia merely as a geographical concept or, at most, as the "non-Western" part of the world. This book attempts to examine Asia from a macro perspective of international relations. Asia includes China, Asia is the continent (Eurasia), and Asia is also the ocean (Pacific and Indian Oceans). The author defines and understands Asia as a broad and inclusive concept. Asia is still in an era of modern nationalism rather than "post-nationalism." Therefore, when observing, researching, and commenting on Asia, state actors are an important subject of study. Over the years, major state actors closely related to Asia's economy, politics, security, and culture—such as Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the United States, and even the European Union—have come into the author's focus. However, Asia is a rapidly changing and dramatically transforming region. It is a crucial part of globalization (the global process). The aforementioned state actors are also major actors in globalization. The structure and process of globalization are particularly evident in Asia. For example, regionalism or new regionalism is also evolving. To observe, research, and comment on Asia, one must recognize its structure and processes. Today, Asia is composed of a series of issues, including political, economic, security, and diplomatic matters, with numerous problems piling up, many of which are significant issues affecting global trends. Observing, researching, and commenting on Asia necessitates a problem-oriented perspective and a constant awareness of issues. Where is Asia heading? This is a question of great concern to many people. Over the years, a key focus of the author has been Asia's trends, particularly the fundamental trends in East Asia. China is China in Asia, and observing, researching, and commenting on Asia cannot be separated from China. China's changes influence Asia's evolution. The author's overall view is that China's own transformations are having an unprecedented impact on Asia, while Asia's changes are also a factor in China's transformation. In this context, China needs to rebuild its relationship with Asia. China must play a greater role in Asian affairs. Based on the above reasoning, the book is primarily divided into five parts: Part I presents observations on some important countries, Part II discusses Asia's structure and processes, Part III explores some of the issues present in Asia, Part IV focuses on major Asian trends, and last returns to China-related concerns. This book is a synthesis of observational, academic, and critical writing, representing the author's international studies over the years. Most of the content has been publicly published, but some parts are newly presented to readers. Observing Asia has always been the author's first step in international studies, followed by in-depth professional research. The author's international commentary is always aspired to be based on observation and research.