Synopses & Reviews
In this thoroughly revised and updated edition, John Copper provides a comprehensive introduction to Taiwan. After describing the countrys historical development, he assesses its social and cultural milieu, its astonishing economic growth, and its relatively smooth transition to democracy. Copper also analyzes the political and security implications of Beijings continuing claim that Taiwan is a province of the PRC as weighed against sentiment in Taiwan favoring independence and a world community that supports the status quo.The book highlights Taiwans unique attributes: its uneasy status as a nation-state, its successful trade-oriented economydespite a lack of natural resourcesits rapid transition to democracy in the wake of economic development, and its ambiguous relationship with the United States. Considering Taiwans international role in the postCold War era, Copper weighs the future of this small but vital island nation.
Synopsis
"In this thoroughly revised and updated edition, John Copper provides a comprehensive introduction to Taiwan. The book highlights Taiwans unique attributes: its uneasy status as a nation-state, its su"
About the Author
John F. Copper is the Stanley J. Buckman Distinguished Professor of International Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. He is the author of more than twenty books on Taiwan, China, and Asian Affairs. His book Chinas Global Role (1980) won the Clarence Day Foundation Award for outstanding research and creativity activity. Professor Coppers most recent books include Historical Dictionary of Taiwan (second edition) published in 2000 and Taiwan in Troubled Times (edited) published in 2002. Dr. Copper was recipient of the International Communications Award in 1997.
Table of Contents
The land and the people -- History -- Society and culture -- Political system -- The economy -- Foreign and military policies -- the future.