ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a theoretical overview in order to assist understanding of the dynamic interaction. The first section summarizes the current state of globalization theory, as described from a variety of viewpoints, based on the perspectives provided by international relations theory, then provide a close look at the debate surrounding regionalism and in particular the new regionalism. Based on the foregoing analysis, the third section examines the interrelationship between globalization and regionalism. Globalization refers to the increasing global movement of goods, information, capital, news, ideas, and people that has been enabled by advances in science, technology, communications, and transportation. In broad terms, globalization is the primary driving force behind the reorganization of the global order. The chapter concludes by enquiring into the current state of, and a problem presented by, globalization in relation to regional systems and suggests some future areas for research on regional integration within Asia.
