ABSTRACT
Among the principal contributions of Michael Leifer to the study of regional order in Southeast Asia was the investigation of Southeast Asian regionalism, particularly the role of ASEAN and the ASEAN Regional Forum. This chapter argues that the real difference between Leifer's and the newer constructivist understanding of Southeast Asia is not so much over whether regionalism matters, but under what conditions does it matter. It argues that taking account of the role of regional norms and identity formation offers a more complete explanation of Southeast Asian regionalism, including its achievements and failures, than Leifer's strategic and diplomatic investigations focusing on the regional balance of power. Leifer stressed the role of structural and material determinants. The sociological and ideational investigation of regionalism begs attention to norms, identity, and community.
