Description
Book SynopsisSeeks to explain two core paradoxes associated with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This work demonstrates how the critical causal connections that underpin Southeast Asian regionalism are both a necessary response to regional problems, and yet ultimately constrain ASEAN's defining informality and consensus-seeking process.
Trade Review"There are two main reasons for highly recommending this study. First, the arguments advanced here are built on painstaking empirical work based on archival and interview-based study. Second, Ba's book is by far the most incisive study of the unstated rationales that inform ASEAN's founding and continued role in East Asian security . . . With its comprehensive scope, sophisticated arguments, and lucid narrative, this book is essential reading for beginners and scholars alike."—Deepak Nair,
Contemporary Southeast Asia"Alice Ba has given us a carefully framed, closely researched volume on ASEAN and East Asian regionalism . . . I>(Re)Negotiating East and Southeast Asia
is an impressive volume that offers quite a few new insights into East and Southeast Asian regionalism and suggests an approach to regionalism itself that could well serve the interpretation of other instances. It is highly recommended for class use on East and Southeast Asia and should be of interest to specialists on regionalism more generally."—Donald Crone, Pacific Affairs
"In this stimulating work, Ba provides a new interpretation that fills important gaps in our understanding of ASEAN. Her theoretical categories and empirical analysis allow her to come closer than most in capturing the spoken and unspoken rationales behind ASEANs actions and policies—and in ways that the policymakers of the region will recognize and applaud. A must-read for all those who want to come to grips with the regional architecture of East and Southeast Asia." —Yuen Foong Khong, Professor of International Relations, Oxford University
