Time Schedule:
Gary G. Hamilton
SIS 455
Seattle Campus
Builds on states and markets approach of 200 and 201 through specific examination of effects of industry and industrial structure on political outcomes and roles of state. Emphasis on late-developing and newly developing economies. Prerequisite: SIS 200; SIS 201.
Class description
The 20th Century was a century of transformation throughout Asia. With the partial exceptions of Japan and Thailand, none of the countries in Asia in the year 2000 were present in their current form in 1900. Most governments throughout the region were colonial, and most economies were pre-industrial and producers of primary products, such as raw rubber and palm oil. Beginning in 1945, Asia has transformed. A half a century later, most Asian counties either have industrialized or are rapidly industrializing, and colonialism in Asia is now a thing of the past. Focusing mainly on Asian economic development, this course will reassess the causes and consequences of the economic growth that occurred in East Asia from the middle of the 19th century to the present time, with particular emphasis on the period after World War II. New findings demonstrate that an American-led transformation in merchandising and retailing must be counted among the most important causes of Asian growth. The overall objective of the course is to show that we live in a world of anonymous interconnections, where, for instance, daily consumption choices made in the United States and elsewhere in the world have long-term consequences on the patterns of economic development and social welfare throughout Asia, as well as other parts of the world.
Student learning goals
The goals of the course are to improve research and writing skills and to increase student awareness of the linkages between U.S. consumerism and Asian industrialization.
General method of instruction
Lecture, discussion, student presentations
Recommended preparation
None
Class assignments and grading
Four research papers, and a midterm and final
Research, writing, exams, and class participation
