In this episode, host Namfon Narumol Choochan interviews Professor Emeritus Amitav Acharya from American University. Together, they discuss how Southeast Asia Studies offers an alternative perspective in the field of international relations. They also explore how ideas and theories from the region can challenge conventional, Western-centric approaches to global politics. Tune in to learn more!
Lightning round (Lecture Summary): 3:45
Main interview:
06:05 - What drew you to study international relations?
07:30 - Does the study of international relations change or shape how you view the world?
09:22 - What led you to explore how non-Western societies and local actors developed and articulated their ideas of international order in their own terms?
11:45 - How can the field of Southeast Asia Studies contribute to the study of International Relations?
17:31 - Can you please explain the works of Cornell scholars—George Kahin, O.W. Wolters, and Benedict Anderson—shaped your scholarship?
22:34- Regionalism has been your central focus. How did your interest in regionalism develop? What are the main questions you have when you study it?
27:52 - Looking back to when you just started your career, how far has the IR field developed? Is there still a gap that scholars must address?
31:20 - What divides do you see between area studies and disciplines? What are the stakes, and how do scholars bridge them together?
Advice for researchers and recommendations: 39:02
Dr. Acharya's top recommendation:
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Michael Leifer
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Donald E. Weatherbee
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Donald K. Emerson
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Sheldon W. Simon
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Journal of Asian Studies
The music on the podcast is from "14 Strings!", a Filipino-style Rondalla group established at Cornell University. Check them out here.
Produced by Adam Farihin and Cecilia Liu
