Journal of Asian and African Studies current issue

Introduction: The Rise of China and Its Emerging Grand Strategy

Wang, T.Y. — 2008-09-03

China as an Economic Power in the Contemporary Era of Globalization

Moore, T. G. — 2008-09-03

China's rising profile in world economic affairs is beyond dispute. This article explores several ways to think about China's experience as a latecomer, offering a preliminary assessment of its development trajectory and the evolving nature of its foreign economic relations. In particular, the analysis rejects the view that China is emerging as the hub of a regional economic order in East Asia that is increasingly cohesive and independent vis-à-vis other regions of the world. Alternatively, the article highlights the promise of research that focuses on the role of Chinese economic activity within global commodity chains and how this particular form of cross-border integration affects interdependence among nation-states at multi-continental distances.

Long Shot and Short Hit: China as a Military Power and Its Implications for the USA and Taiwan

Lee, W.-c. — 2008-09-03

This article attempts to evaluate China's military developments in recent years and explore the implications of its military advancements. The emphasis will be on the potential impact of China's current military growth on the USA and Taiwan. What are the unique features of China's recent enhancement of its military capability? Does China's military expansion signal a power transition for a US-dominated international system? What is the US policy to deal with a rising China? Finally, to what extent is Taiwan prepared to meet China's new military challenges?

Domestic Sources of China's Emerging Grand Strategy

Guoli Liu, — 2008-09-03

China's emerging grand strategy has deep domestic roots, which can be examined in terms of cultural tradition, socioeconomic development, and strategic choices. China's cultural tradition emphasizes he wei gui (priority to peace) and he er bu tong (unity in diversity). China's modernization demands a peaceful environment. In fact, the majority of Chinese elites and common people have realized that China cannot become rich and strong without a peaceful environment. Peaceful development is a strategic choice made by leaders from Deng Xiaoping to Hu Jintao. A rising China is facing cultural, economic, environmental, and political challenges. This study also highlights the difficulty of practicing China's emerging grand strategy.

Book Review: Neville Hoad (2007) African Intimacies: Race, Homosexuality, and Globalization. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press. pp. 232. $20.00 (pbk)

Gaudio, R. P. — 2008-09-03

Book Review: Mike Davis (2006) Planet of Slums. London: Verso. pp. 256. $24.00 (pbk)

Pithouse, R. — 2008-09-03

Book Review: Bill Freund (2007) The African City: A History. New York: Cambridge University Press. pp. x + 214 (including illustrations and maps). $19.99 (pbk)

Palmer, J. M. — 2008-09-03

Book Review: Leo Zeilig (2007) Revolt and Protest: Student Politics and Activism in Sub-Saharan Africa. London: I.B. Tauris & Company. pp. 360. $95.00

Bianchini, P. — 2008-09-03

Book Review: John Mukum Mbaku (2007) Corruption in Africa: Causes, Consequences, and Cleanups. Lanham, MD: Lexington Books. pp. 402 (cloth)

Conner, A., Ike Udogu, E. — 2008-09-03