Cambridge University Press Political Change in Southeast Asia

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. Review 'At last a book that provides a comprehensive, historically grounded and up-to-date survey of politics in Southeast Asia. Covering the historical origins of the diverse regimes that make up the region, as well as the forces driving political change today, Political Change in Southeast Asia will be welcomed by both experts and students of the region. Paying attention to evolving social structures and complex contingencies, mass social forces and the actions of elites, Jacques Bertrand captures the complex dynamics both driving and retarding political change in this fascinating and politically diverse region.' Edward Aspinall, Australian National University'For decades, the study of Southeast Asian politics has remained confined to single-country studies, with the diversity and complexity of the region thwarting more broadly conceived and comparative work. In this magisterial survey, Jacques Bertrand provides a synthetic account of the variegated patterns of political change across the full breadth of Southeast Asia. Bertrand's command of the field, and the clarity and coherence of his analysis, make for a study unparalleled in breadth of coverage and depth of insight. Scholars and students of Southeast Asian politics will remain indebted to Bertrand for this foundational text for many years to come.' John Sidel, Sir Patrick Gillam Professor of International and Comparative Politics, London School of Economics and Political Science'A political survey of all Southeast Asia is not for the faint-hearted. Its half-billion people comprise all the world's major religions, hundreds of ethno-linguistic groups, and among the world's richest (Singapore) and poorest countries. Its politics neatly divide between communist-authoritarian, democratic, what Bertrand calls 'semi-democracies' (Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand) and plain authoritarian (Cambodia and Burma). Jacques Bertrand manages this task with a sure and experienced hand, judiciously covering all its eleven countries except Brunei. Students will be well-served by its comprehensiveness, accuracy and balance.' Anthony Reid, Emeritus Professor, Australian National University'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 fo