About the Course:

This course will explore relations across the Taiwan Strait with a specific focus on “the Taiwan Question” and place this study within the context of a greater East Asian political and security sphere. We will begin with a basic political history to develop a context for modern relations, then we will move into more advanced economic, cultural, and political theory analyses to understand the forces behind current events. Assigned readings will comprehensively draw upon American, Mainland Chinese, and Taiwanese scholarship, as well as official state rhetoric and popular media. Class will begin with a brief lecture to summarize key points from readings, and then the remainder of the class will be opened to discussion. It is our goal for students to leave the class with an understanding of the root problems behind the “Taiwan Question” and also an exposure to a variety of opinions on the issue.

How to Enroll:

Attention: First day of class moved to 8/27.  If you are unable to attend the first day of class, don't worry.  Come to the next session on 9/10.

Show up on the first day of class, Monday, 8/27, for enrollment information.  The last day to sign up for the class will be 9/10 (since 9/3 is a holiday).

This course will meet once a week for 1.5 hours and will be offered for 1 unit.

There are no prerequisites for this course, aside from an interest in current events relating to cross-strait relations.