Australia in Asia: Comparing Cultures: v.1

This work provides a sophisticated analysis of the cultural differences that exist between Australia and the various countries of the Asian region. Leading specialists in Australian and Asian studies have been brought together to produce this timely and provocative book. As much practical as it is theoretical in its approach, it includes chapters on issues that are of vital importance in Australian-Asian relations: business ethics, human rights, education, labor relations, democracy, national security, the media, citizenship and government.

As Australia's engagement with Asia deepens, many Australians have taken comfort in the belief that the various value systems of the region are converging to produce a 'global' culture, in which liberal democracy, multiculturalism and the English language will dominate. Australia in Asia: Comparing Cultures reassesses this belief and illustrates the complexity of Australia's relationships with the countries of the Asian region. It both acknowledges the dangers of parochialism and warns against the tendency to stereotype, demonstrating that Australia's engagement with Asia is a process that requires Australians to look as closely at their own culture and values as at those of their Asian neighbours.

Anthony Milner is Professor of Asian History at the Australian National University and the Director of the Australian-Asian Perceptions Project, an initiative of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, which oversaw the writing of this and the other books in the Australia in Asia series.