Political Change in Southeast Asia

A powerful new survey of political change in Southeast Asia, exploring why some countries have become democratic while others remain authoritarian.

Jacques Bertrand (Author)

9780521710060, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 11 July 2013

258 pages, 2 b/w illus. 12 tables
22.8 x 15.1 x 1.2 cm, 0.41 kg

'In this much-anticipated new text, Jacques Bertrand makes a clear case for Southeast Asia as politically distinctive, if not wholly unique. Adjudicating among dominant explanations for political change or stasis that stress the role of economic development in structuring political patterns (and vice-versa), the influence and interests of elite actors, the strength and priorities of class-based or other social forces, and cultural features such as patrimonialism, Bertrand offers a pithy, well-focused, and accessible introduction to Southeast Asian politics, spanning the diversity of states in the region through the present day. The book presents both succinct political histories of each state and a cogent analytical approach, making it ideal for undergraduate or graduate classroom use.' Meredith L. Weiss, University at Albany, State University of New York

Southeast Asia is a vast and complex region, comprising countries with remarkably diverse histories and cultures. Jacques Bertrand provides a fresh and highly original survey of politics and political change in this area of the world. Against the backdrop of rapid economic development and social transformation in several countries, he explores why some countries have adopted democratic institutions, while others have maintained stable authoritarian systems or accepted communist regimes. Bertrand presents a historically grounded account of capitalist countries and state-socialist countries, delving into the historical experience of individual countries, whilst simultaneously providing a comparative framework with which to draw parallels and foster a better understanding of the political and economic dynamics both within and between the countries. With powerful yet accessible analysis and detailed coverage, this book offers students and scholars a thorough and thought-provoking introduction to the political landscape of Southeast Asia.

Preface
1. Understanding political change in Southeast Asia
Part I. Capitalism, Economic Growth and Political Change: 2. Indonesia and Timor-Leste
3. The Philippines
4. Malaysia, Singapore
5. Thailand
Part II. State Socialist Countries and Authoritarian Stability: 6. Vietnam
7. Cambodia and Laos
8. Burma/Myanmar
9. Southeast Asia in the twenty-first century
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Politics & government [JP], Asian history [HBJF]