Overview

About

Asian Studies is an interdisciplinary program focused on the study of historical and contemporary Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and India among others. The curriculum introduces students to the critical and methodological approaches that have informed the study of Asia and encourages them to examine the political, economic, social, cultural, environmental and religious formations of different societies in the region. Students may focus on a particular region in its historical and contemporary manifestations or examine a conceptual theme through the region. 

Themes could include literary, musical, and visual arts; environmental studies; transnational relations; economic development; state-building; cultural identities; gender roles and class distinctions; social movements and popular protests, among many others. The Asian Studies program from Lewis and Clark College gives attention to the dynamic, interrelated, and sometimes contentious nature of the area’s cultures, politics, and economies. Asian Studies provides students with the depth of knowledge and critical perspectives they need to understand the diverse societies, cultures, politics and economics of Asia, their relationship with each other, and their role in a globalized world.