China studies in Southeast Asia

This chapter first reviews the developments of Chinese Studies as a global phenomenon. From the western countries (Europe and the United States) to the neighbors of China, it selectively discusses the characteristics of the field of Chinese Studies in different countries, as shaped by factors such as philosophical traditions, historical relations with China, and contemporary dynamics. The chapter then moves to discuss the major features in Southeast Asia that will shape the development of the field. First is the presence of a large ethnic Chinese population and the second is the political and cultural diversity of the whole region. Finally, it ponders about the potential of these countries in contributing to the global understanding of China.