HIST 389-01, East Asia in the Modern World, Fall 2008

Abstract

Beginning with traditional China, Japan, and Korea, this course examines the dynamics of the Western presence in Asia in the nineteenth century and the dramatic transition these civilizations made from empire to nation. Modernization continued in the twentieth century and with it came wars involving the U.S., resulting in divided nations. Now in the twenty-first century East Asia faces new challenges and unprecedented potentialities.Although the subject for the course is Modern East Asia, the main point of the course is not to know everything about Modern East Asia, which would be impossible in any case, but to offer a general survey and additionally provide some depth by focusing on a limited number of important themes. This is achieved through critical analysis of primary sources and discussion of specialized readings. Through this method and not lecture alone, it is expected that students will not only gain factual knowledge related to East Asian history but also acquire an interest in learning independently by asking and seeking answers to their own questions, learning to analyze and critically evaluate ideas and points of view, and learning to express themselves both orally and in writing.In this course we are committed to Rhodes standards: “Freedom of thought, a civil exchange of ideas, and an appreciation of diverse perspectives are fundamental characteristics of a community that is committed to critical inquiry. To promote such an academic and social environment we expect integrity and honesty in our relationships with each other and openness to learning about and experiencing cultural diversity” (Student Handbook 27). In this spirit, this class is to provide a safe space for critical thinking and the free exchange of ideas.