In this course you will examine a range of important issues around the political, economic, media and communication, and cultural developments of contemporary Asia against the supposedly universal values of Western modernity from a comparative perspective.

Some of the major questions you will explore are: What is modernity? Is there an 'Asian model' and can it be seen as an alternative modernity? The meaning and significance of the rise of Asia? How has Asia been represented in Western media and Asian media seen the West? Is the 21st century going to be the so-called 'Asian century'? What are the opportunities and challenges for Australia as an Asia-Pacific nation?

This exploration will improve your understanding of both Asian and Western modernities and equip you with the key knowledge to engage with Asia in your professional practice.