The Politics of the Asia-Pacific: Triumphs, Challenges, and Threats

"The Politics of the Asia-Pacific provides an important lesson for students: that it is folly to take on a limited or rigid analytical understanding of regional politics and in fact there are many entry points to the study of the region."

Jennifer Mustapha, Huron University College

"The Politics of the Asia-Pacific introduces undergraduate students to the Asia-Pacific region through a close look at five themes: colonialism; economy; democracy and authoritarianism; security; and regional governance. There are very few appropriate teaching materials that cover the entire Asia-Pacific, and for this reason, this textbook is a welcome addition. I appreciate the key insights, discussion questions, and active learning simulations."

Isabelle Côté, Memorial University of Newfoundland

"Asia has reclaimed its seat in the cockpit of history. This timely and comprehensive volume brings together the political, social, economic, and environmental dimensions of governing this massive and complex region. A fantastic primer for students looking across the Pacific for the future."

Parag Khanna, author of The Future is Asian

"Mark Williams has brought together an impressive line-up of regional experts to provide a comprehensive introduction to what is the most important economic and strategic area in the world. The use of key themes and innovative teaching suggestions will be appreciated by students and teachers alike. Highly recommended."

Mark Beeson, Professor of International Politics, University of Western Australia

"This textbook succeeds where many others have failed. It remains accessible without avoiding any of the diversity and complexity of Asia, and it focuses on today’s important issues but does not sidestep the historical context that gave rise to them. Any student of Asia – and who today can afford not to study Asia? – will find here a compelling and much needed tour d’horizon of the region."

Pierre Lizée, Professor of Global Studies, Brock University

"On a compellingly grand scale, The Politics of the Asia-Pacific takes the reader on a historical and contemporary journey, expertly illuminating the region's numerous complexities, political and otherwise."

Chris Kilford, Fellow, Queen's Centre for International and Defence Policy, and President, Canadian International Council, Victoria Branch

"A hearty congratulation to the editor and contributors of this timely and welcome study of the Asia-Pacific, a region of immense complexities and vital interest to so many countries, including Canada. Although intended as a reference tool for students, the topics covered and the breadth of research and perspective make this an excellent book for academics, diplomats, NGOs and others working in the region."

John T. Holmes, former Canadian Ambassador to Indonesia and the Philippines

"Mark Williams’ text fills a significant gap in the literature by providing students with a comprehensive introduction to the complexities of the contemporary Asia-Pacific region. With chapters from established and emerging scholars, the book covers comparative politics, political economy, and international security. It is sure to be attractive to anyone teaching in this field."

John Ravenhill, Professor and Chair of the Department of Political Science, University of Waterloo

"Written by leading experts, this 21-chapter book is comprehensive, insightful, and up-to-date. It uniquely includes active learning (simulation) chapters on three cases to engage students. All in all, this is a path-breaking and highly useful introductory textbook on the politics of the Asia-Pacific."

Tsuyoshi Kawasaki, Associate Professor of Political Science, Simon Fraser University