Indo-Pacific: Culture & Decision Making

The Indo-Pacific is emerging as a key region in which international politics are redefined. It encompasses some of the fastest growing economies; top military powers and rich cultures. Its economic dynamism rests on a maritime geography that has favoured connectivity and interdependence; its political make-up is defined by outstanding territorial disputes; unresolved Cold War issues; and entrenched Sino-American structural competition; and cultural traditions are both similar and different to Western traditions. This course explores what is meant by "culture"; how people embedded in different cultures make decisions and when; why; and how culture matters in engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.