Course Description

Various disciplines within the social sciences have specifically addressed issues within the field of study known as Area Studies. In the early 20th century, this study began as a systematic, detailed, and in-depth study of various regions, primarily through the study of history, culture, and other social characteristics. Later, the study evolved to encompass more social and physical dimensions and utilize more academic disciplines. In the literature, there are three definitions of Area Studies: First, as a detailed descriptive study of a country or region; a specific case study; not intended to generate generalizations or theories. Second, as a relatively in-depth and contextual study of a particular society or region to develop scientific propositions that can be applied to more general cases. Third, as an interdisciplinary teaching and research activity by academics grouped within a program dedicated to the study of a particular region (Hall and Tarrow, 1998). This lecture will focus on this third type.

This course is designed to introduce students to this academic field of study by asking three basic questions: (1) What is Area Studies and why is it important?; (2) How is it studied?; and (3) What is known about its subject? What knowledge has it produced? In this course, students will engage in: (1) outlining and analyzing the concept of region and how scholars define it; (2) deductively applying several theoretical perspectives to understand the dynamics of a region and its countries; and (3) inductively identifying the interactions between regional actors, both peaceful and conflictual.

The ultimate goal of this analytical exercise is to outline the prospects for developing regional cooperation. Given the broad scope of Area Studies, for the sake of expediency, lectures and discussions in this course will focus on two substantive issues: political economy and political security.

Expected Learning Outcome

1. Describe and analyze the basic concepts of areas (areas, regions) and regionalism, as well as theories in Area Studies.
2. Explain regional phenomena, in the form of peaceful and conflictual relations, by applying the theories studied.
3. Assess the potential and limitations of theories and conceptualizations developed in Area Studies for understanding international affairs.
4. Write a paper or analytical essay on a region using the theories studied.
5. Present academic findings in Area Studies.
6. Compare regional advantages with each other.

Syllabus

Read the full syllabus here.