To complete question #53 on the "Foundations Investigation," select an article from a PRINT issue of Current History. Your comment should include the following:
Cultural Region (Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, Middle East, Central Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Oceania, or Latin America)
MLA Citation
Concise (no more than 5 sentences) summary that includes a clear thesis statement
Southeast Asia, Journal Article Thayer, Carlyle A. "Southeast Asia's Married Miracle." Current History April (2005): 177-82. Print. The effect of the 1997 financial crisis in Asia has made a profound impact on Asia's sow moving economy. Asia was supposed to celebrate its newly fixed economy by adding Burma, Laos, and Cambodia, to its ASEAN program. However, the celebration ended early when ASEAN found out that it had failed to cope with the financial challenges given, and needed to shut down, since rumors surrounding it claimed nepotism, corruption, and so on.
Parker, Sam. "Is Iraq Back?" Current History 108 (2009): 429-31. Print.
Iraq is transforming from a state in crisis- distinguished by a bankrupt political order and consumed in civil war- to a sovereign nation that has an extensively accepted political process and is an independent state on the international stage. However, several foundational problems still remain unresolved for Iraq, like the government not helping the people. It still remains one of the most corrupt countries in the world. Nonetheless, the ongoing question is what role the new Iraq will play in the region.
Europe/East Asia Lavelle, Peter. "What Does Putin Want?" Current History 103.675 (2004): 314-19. Print. Putin , in fairly recent reign, has instituted and change policies of the previous Soviet Union. Putin has placed a heavy tax rate on the oil companies attempting to lower taxes in other parts of the country. The oligarchs system is under revision, determining that a group of extremely wealthy people can not rule a country. Also, a new crime strategy is in use in Moscow, that a case will be prosecuted basically public so other citizens will act accordingly. This ensures that the public is aware of the criminals.
Mulgan, Aurelia George. "Can Trade Talks Drive Reform in Japan?" Current History 111.746 (2012): 241-43. Print.
The United States' opposition to Japan's current form of trade involving beef, auto and insurance may have sparked the consideration of joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The United States and the countries prime minister, Yoshihiko Noda both strongly support the negotiation. However, the political parties in which support the reform are a minority. The Japan Medical Association fear the collapse of a public health insurance system should the Trade organization be approved.This new trade would open many opportunities for Japan to experience domestic reform, regional economic integration and free trading system within the Asia-Pacific area if Japan's leaders can persuade the political parties, medical professionals and agriculture experts of its benefits.
Mearsheimer, John J. "China's Unpeaceful Rise." Current History 105.690 (2006):160-62. Print.
East Asia: Mearshimer, in his article about China and its competitive nature, particularly against the United States, attempts to explain his strong opinion. According to Mearshimer, who is a professor of political science at the University of Chicago, it is with inevitability that China will become even more of a global superpower. However, he believes that with their animosity, it won't be a peaceful rise into power.
Europe Finan, William W., Jr. "Wrestling with Euro-Islam." Current History: A Journal of Contemporary Affairs March (2007): 140-42. Print.
The assimilation of Muslims into European culture and other foreign groups into new societies has produced extreme problems. Finan begins by explaining the murder of Theo van Gough, a Dutch filmmaker who produced a movie that, according to his murderer, depicted Muslim women as degraded or poor. He then goes on to explain how incidents such as this have been occurring all over Europe; especially since the Muslim population has exponentially increased to nearly overpower the non-Muslim population. Many Muslims and other strange or "different" religious groups have been trying to join with European countries for years and so far many still remain poor and segregated while others have blossomed into educated, employed men. Finan finishes by explaining the real controversies that have developed due to this integration since non-Muslims now keep constant watch of all Muslims they know in fear of terrorist attacks where this is merely a terrible stereotype.
Ottaway, Marina. "What Should Be Done About Iraq?" Current History Jan. 2007: 42-43. Print.
Throughout the article Ottaway attempts to discuss what should be done with Iraq and what outcomes lie with the Bush Administrations decision. Ottaway discusses how the Bush Administration has finally come to terms with the fact that the situation in Iraq is no longer “staying the course”. The problem in Iraq has progressed so much that it is now in a state where other countries other than the United States are on edge. She also says Iraq is split into two ethnic groups, the Sunnis and Shiites, who have tension between each other because they each want to be in charge of Iraq’s government. Ottaway concludes the article by discussing how bordering countries of Iraq are on edge because if Iraq were to start a revolution then countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iran would be forced to chose sides.
Trenin, Dmiti. "NATO and Russia: Partnership or Peril?" Current History 108.720(2009): 299-303. Print.
Russia and Europe Trenin discusses the problems with incorporating the post Soviet Russian lands into the European Union and the protection of Europe as a whole. He believes that increasing NATO and Europe communications towards Russia have helped to incorporate Russia into Europe. However, the recent attempt by Russia to restore peace in Georgia has resulted in complications.The NRC is reviewing weapon regulation and nuclear missile regulation. After Afghanistan, the main focus should be on bettering European relations with Russia.
Hakan, Yavuz and Khan, Mujeeb R. "Turkey and Europe: Will East Meet West?" Current History Nov. 2004: 389-393
In this article Hakan and Khan discuss the difficult decision both positive and negative points whether to bring Turkey into the Europe Union or not. With Muslims and low economic growth due to the increasing Turkish population,they are quite unsure if allowing them in would be such a good idea.They explain that Turkey will once again become a player in politics which would be quite beneficial.Even though they go back and forth between pros and cons for each side(west and east)the question still lies, will Turkey become part of the European Union or not?
Shambaugh, David. "China and Europe: The Emerging Axis." Current History 103.674 (2004): 243-48. Print. Europe/East Asia:
The article "China and Europe: Emerging Axis", by David Shambaugh, a professor of political science and international affairs, describes how Europe and China have been supporting each other and growing off of each other since 2004. He discusses how Europe's contributions of technology, arms, and defense technologies have helped China, where as China's economic reforms have greatly helped Europe with trade. The two countries have also discussed and followed through with political visits, acknowledgement of military strategies, education systems, and tourism. These bonds were sparked from many reasons, many being related to common enemies or military strategies and others spawning from the need to facilitate growth.
Abinales, Patricio N., and Donna J. Amoroso. "The Withering of Philippine Democracy." Current Histroy 105.692 (2006): 290-95. Print. The decay of Philippine democracy evolves from the poor leadership of its executives and the rising opposition of such executives. The Philippine president at the time, Gloria Arroyo, cheated her way to power and has been prosecuted for trying to change the Philippine constitution because of her radical and autocratic use of emergency power. Many “normal” Philippines turn away from the conflicts going on in their country because they believe that it’s not their fight, they do not want to get involved in the war between their executive branch and the radical parties. Communist and Nationalist parties such as MILF have been revolting against the government mainly because of the unjust leadership of Arroyo. With the help of Americans, the Philippines were able to take down terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the country but overall the Philippines are at a unrest because of the bloodshed and corruption brought on by the government.
Pinheiro, Paulo Sergio. "Youth, Violence, and Democracy." Current History 106.697 (2007): 64-69. Print.
This article discusses the increasing violence in the integrity of Latin American countries, specifically coming from the young people who are impoverished. This violence involves the unruly government, rights, and gangs. Once the adolescents are involved in a gang, they take on their attitude against the government and spark protests and killings. The lack of rights in these countries makes the youth want to rebel against it ever since the fall of many dictatorships- linking democracy and human rights together. The increasing violence in Latin America is overtaking the young society because of disputes with economic and political issues.
Mistry, Dinshaw. "Nuclear Asia's Challenges." Current History (2005): 176-82.Print. Since the Cold War, Asia has increased in nuclear power, the United States has tried to make peace treaties and other countries are evolving in nuclear weaponry. North Korea, in Asia, has created a susbstantial issue, its usage of nuclear power has been growing superfluously for the past decade, many countries like Japan are advocating the Americans and Chinese to adhere the North Koreans productions of missiles. The Unted States during the Bush administration made few peace treaties but North Korea never agreed, the United States offered them money, and aid if they announced that they were mass producing nuclear weapons and would halt their operation. There is a race within Asia to have the highest amount of nuclear weapons possibly causing some concern for the Americans. In addition smaller countries with the capability and intellectual standards to breed nuclear missiles, have.
Europe Moravcsik, Andrew. "A Too Perfect Union? Why Europe Said 'No.'" Current History Nov. 2005: 355-60. Print. Even though the referendum the European Union attempted to pass in 2005 was voted down, the EU is still a strong political institution. Most of the criticism of the referendum comes from poorer countries who fear they do not have enough representation. The countries against the referendum did not disagree with the constitution itself, nor the EU policies, but they feared unemployment and globalization. The EU has been a stable organization by providing a singular monetary system and forming a defense policy. The author concludes by stating that the EU will continue to be successful, even without drastic change.
Latin America's Populist Turn- In this article, the countries of Latin America want to become more democratic, but some issues are holding it back. For example, corrupt politicians have stolen money from their region and disgraced the region. Also, political parties are inconsistent with beliefs, and struggle to maintain order. However, these countries do have a chance, as the income of the countries is increasing, and political stability is becoming more realistic. Shifter, Michael, and Vinay Jawahar. "Latin America's Populist Turn." Current History: 51-57. Print.
Bakhash, Shaul. "Iran's Deepening Internal Crisis." Current History 111.749 (2012): 337-43. Print.
The author, Shaul Bakhash, explains how Iran is becoming worse. A new presidential election is coming up and the current president hasn't done much. Iran's economy is in danger due to slow growth. At the same time, sanctions are becoming more difficult to deal with, affecting the economy. Iran also differs from many major countries, and these differences are not being resolved.
Southeast Asia, Journal Article Thayer, Carlyle A. "Southeast Asia's Married Miracle." Current History April (2005): 177-82. Print.
ReplyDeleteThe effect of the 1997 financial crisis in Asia has made a profound impact on Asia's sow moving economy. Asia was supposed to celebrate its newly fixed economy by adding Burma, Laos, and Cambodia, to its ASEAN program. However, the celebration ended early when ASEAN found out that it had failed to cope with the financial challenges given, and needed to shut down, since rumors surrounding it claimed nepotism, corruption, and so on.
Parker, Sam. "Is Iraq Back?" Current History 108 (2009): 429-31. Print.
ReplyDeleteIraq is transforming from a state in crisis- distinguished by a bankrupt political order and consumed in civil war- to a sovereign nation that has an extensively accepted political process and is an independent state on the international stage. However, several foundational problems still remain unresolved for Iraq, like the government not helping the people. It still remains one of the most corrupt countries in the world. Nonetheless, the ongoing question is what role the new Iraq will play in the region.
Europe/East Asia Lavelle, Peter. "What Does Putin Want?" Current History 103.675 (2004): 314-19. Print.
ReplyDeletePutin , in fairly recent reign, has instituted and change policies of the previous Soviet Union. Putin has placed a heavy tax rate on the oil companies attempting to lower taxes in other parts of the country. The oligarchs system is under revision, determining that a group of extremely wealthy people can not rule a country. Also, a new crime strategy is in use in Moscow, that a case will be prosecuted basically public so other citizens will act accordingly. This ensures that the public is aware of the criminals.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMulgan, Aurelia George. "Can Trade Talks Drive Reform in Japan?" Current History 111.746 (2012): 241-43. Print.
ReplyDeleteThe United States' opposition to Japan's current form of trade involving beef, auto and insurance may have sparked the consideration of joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The United States and the countries prime minister, Yoshihiko Noda both strongly support the negotiation. However, the political parties in which support the reform are a minority. The Japan Medical Association fear the collapse of a public health insurance system should the Trade organization be approved.This new trade would open many opportunities for Japan to experience domestic reform, regional economic integration and free trading system within the Asia-Pacific area if Japan's leaders can persuade the political parties, medical professionals and agriculture experts of its benefits.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMearsheimer, John J. "China's Unpeaceful Rise." Current History 105.690 (2006):160-62. Print.
ReplyDeleteEast Asia:
Mearshimer, in his article about China and its competitive nature, particularly against the United States, attempts to explain his strong opinion. According to Mearshimer, who is a professor of political science at the University of Chicago, it is with inevitability that China will become even more of a global superpower. However, he believes that with their animosity, it won't be a peaceful rise into power.
Europe
ReplyDeleteFinan, William W., Jr. "Wrestling with Euro-Islam." Current History: A Journal of Contemporary
Affairs March (2007): 140-42. Print.
The assimilation of Muslims into European culture and other foreign groups into new societies has produced extreme problems. Finan begins by explaining the murder of Theo van Gough, a Dutch filmmaker who produced a movie that, according to his murderer, depicted Muslim women as degraded or poor. He then goes on to explain how incidents such as this have been occurring all over Europe; especially since the Muslim population has exponentially increased to nearly overpower the non-Muslim population. Many Muslims and other strange or "different" religious groups have been trying to join with European countries for years and so far many still remain poor and segregated while others have blossomed into educated, employed men. Finan finishes by explaining the real controversies that have developed due to this integration since non-Muslims now keep constant watch of all Muslims they know in fear of terrorist attacks where this is merely a terrible stereotype.
Middle East
ReplyDeleteOttaway, Marina. "What Should Be Done About Iraq?" Current History Jan. 2007: 42-43. Print.
Throughout the article Ottaway attempts to discuss what should be done with Iraq and what outcomes lie with the Bush Administrations decision. Ottaway discusses how the Bush Administration has finally come to terms with the fact that the situation in Iraq is no longer “staying the course”. The problem in Iraq has progressed so much that it is now in a state where other countries other than the United States are on edge. She also says Iraq is split into two ethnic groups, the Sunnis and Shiites, who have tension between each other because they each want to be in charge of Iraq’s government. Ottaway concludes the article by discussing how bordering countries of Iraq are on edge because if Iraq were to start a revolution then countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iran would be forced to chose sides.
Trenin, Dmiti. "NATO and Russia: Partnership or Peril?" Current History 108.720(2009): 299-303. Print.
ReplyDeleteRussia and Europe
Trenin discusses the problems with incorporating the post Soviet Russian lands into the European Union and the protection of Europe as a whole. He believes that increasing NATO and Europe communications towards Russia have helped to incorporate Russia into Europe. However, the recent attempt by Russia to restore peace in Georgia has resulted in complications.The NRC is reviewing weapon regulation and nuclear missile regulation. After Afghanistan, the main focus should be on bettering European relations with Russia.
Europe
ReplyDeleteHakan, Yavuz and Khan, Mujeeb R. "Turkey and Europe: Will East Meet West?" Current History Nov. 2004: 389-393
In this article Hakan and Khan discuss the difficult decision both positive and negative points whether to bring Turkey into the Europe Union or not. With Muslims and low economic growth due to the increasing Turkish population,they are quite unsure if allowing them in would be such a good idea.They explain that Turkey will once again become a player in politics which would be quite beneficial.Even though they go back and forth between pros and cons for each side(west and east)the question still lies, will Turkey become part of the European Union or not?
Shambaugh, David. "China and Europe: The Emerging Axis." Current History 103.674
ReplyDelete(2004): 243-48. Print.
Europe/East Asia:
The article "China and Europe: Emerging Axis", by David Shambaugh, a professor of political science and international affairs, describes how Europe and China have been supporting each other and growing off of each other since 2004. He discusses how Europe's contributions of technology, arms, and defense technologies have helped China, where as China's economic reforms have greatly helped Europe with trade. The two countries have also discussed and followed through with political visits, acknowledgement of military strategies, education systems, and tourism. These bonds were sparked from many reasons, many being related to common enemies or military strategies and others spawning from the need to facilitate growth.
Excellent summary! You provide insight into the author, the context of the article, & a concise summary of the argument.
DeleteSoutheast Asia
ReplyDeleteAbinales, Patricio N., and Donna J. Amoroso. "The Withering of Philippine Democracy." Current Histroy 105.692 (2006): 290-95. Print.
The decay of Philippine democracy evolves from the poor leadership of its executives and the rising opposition of such executives. The Philippine president at the time, Gloria Arroyo, cheated her way to power and has been prosecuted for trying to change the Philippine constitution because of her radical and autocratic use of emergency power. Many “normal” Philippines turn away from the conflicts going on in their country because they believe that it’s not their fight, they do not want to get involved in the war between their executive branch and the radical parties. Communist and Nationalist parties such as MILF have been revolting against the government mainly because of the unjust leadership of Arroyo. With the help of Americans, the Philippines were able to take down terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the country but overall the Philippines are at a unrest because of the bloodshed and corruption brought on by the government.
Latin America
ReplyDeletePinheiro, Paulo Sergio. "Youth, Violence, and Democracy." Current History 106.697 (2007): 64-69. Print.
This article discusses the increasing violence in the integrity of Latin American countries, specifically coming from the young people who are impoverished. This violence involves the unruly government, rights, and gangs. Once the adolescents are involved in a gang, they take on their attitude against the government and spark protests and killings. The lack of rights in these countries makes the youth want to rebel against it ever since the fall of many dictatorships- linking democracy and human rights together. The increasing violence in Latin America is overtaking the young society because of disputes with economic and political issues.
Mistry, Dinshaw. "Nuclear Asia's Challenges." Current History (2005): 176-82.Print.
ReplyDeleteSince the Cold War, Asia has increased in nuclear power, the United States has tried to make peace treaties and other countries are evolving in nuclear weaponry. North Korea, in Asia, has created a susbstantial issue, its usage of nuclear power has been growing superfluously for the past decade, many countries like Japan are advocating the Americans and Chinese to adhere the North Koreans productions of missiles. The Unted States during the Bush administration made few peace treaties but North Korea never agreed, the United States offered them money, and aid if they announced that they were mass producing nuclear weapons and would halt their operation. There is a race within Asia to have the highest amount of nuclear weapons possibly causing some concern for the Americans. In addition smaller countries with the capability and intellectual standards to breed nuclear missiles, have.
Europe
ReplyDeleteMoravcsik, Andrew. "A Too Perfect Union? Why Europe Said 'No.'" Current History Nov. 2005: 355-60. Print.
Even though the referendum the European Union attempted to pass in 2005 was voted down, the EU is still a strong political institution. Most of the criticism of the referendum comes from poorer countries who fear they do not have enough representation. The countries against the referendum did not disagree with the constitution itself, nor the EU policies, but they feared unemployment and globalization. The EU has been a stable organization by providing a singular monetary system and forming a defense policy. The author concludes by stating that the EU will continue to be successful, even without drastic change.
Latin America's Populist Turn-
ReplyDeleteIn this article, the countries of Latin America want to become more democratic, but some issues are holding it back. For example, corrupt politicians have stolen money from their region and disgraced the region. Also, political parties are inconsistent with beliefs, and struggle to maintain order. However, these countries do have a chance, as the income of the countries is increasing, and political stability is becoming more realistic. Shifter, Michael, and Vinay Jawahar. "Latin America's Populist Turn." Current History: 51-57. Print.
Middle East
ReplyDeleteBakhash, Shaul. "Iran's Deepening Internal Crisis." Current History 111.749
(2012): 337-43. Print.
The author, Shaul Bakhash, explains how Iran is becoming worse. A new presidential election is coming up and the current president hasn't done much. Iran's economy is in danger due to slow growth. At the same time, sanctions are becoming more difficult to deal with, affecting the economy. Iran also differs from many major countries, and these differences are not being resolved.