Research on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has hitherto attracted scholarly attention and debate by both regional and international scholars working in area studies, such as international relations and Asia-Pacific/Southeast Asia studies. Confined to area studies, scholarly research on ASEAN is limiting because the parameters…

Some factors are common to the confrontation of Cypriot Greeks and Turks and the confrontation of Palestinians and Israelis. An independent international initiative is necessary to solve these disputes. If the Europeans revive their Venice initiative at the United Nations, the Palestinians and Israelis will obtain peace and security. (AM)

The ranking of American interests in the Middle East and their inherent conflict present foreign policymakers with a dilemma. American involvement in the Middle East is a post-World War II phenomenon. To achieve a breakthrough in the Arab-Israeli dispute, the United States government must take a number of actions. (AM)

Presents a geopolitical history of the African continent. Its geography, mineral resources, regional industrial development, and international role are discussed. The impact of African foreign policies on the struggle between China and Taiwan is examined. (AM)

The policies of Syria in the wake of Israel's invasion of Lebanon are examined. Speculations about the future of this volatile area are made. (RM)

Describes problems in Middle Eastern studies, focusing on: (1) the problem of access for students and faculty conducting research due to countries being completely closed or highly restrictive; (2) declines in Middle Eastern and American corporate donations to language and area studies as oil prices decrease; and (3) the difficulties inherent in…

Describes the "study tour of the Soviet Union," for several years a feature of the three-week interim term at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Discusses tour organization, related orientation activities and itineraries, dwelling at length on problems encountered, especially recent last-minute denials of visa to group leaders. (MES)

In order for American social scientists to effectively contribute to international social science, they must confront two challenges. They must come to terms with the problems generated by the fragmentation of the American social science disciplines and with the involvement of American social science with American foreign policy. (IS)

Canada did not develop strong ties with the Third World until well after World War II. Three factors that have channeled and limited Canada's relationships with developing nations--location, history, and internal political relationships--are discussed. Also examined are patterns of Canadian foreign aid and investment and peace-seeking efforts. (RM)

Emphasizes the need to present students with conceptual frameworks that will enable them to understand and deal with changes, continuities, uncertainties, and contingencies. Describes a textbook that approaches the future of U.S.-Soviet relations from a framework of four different possible futures. Discusses programs using the text in teaching…

Maintains that United States foreign policy toward South Africa has been "found wanting" since 1948. Focuses on the failure of President Reagan's policy of "constructive engagement," and details what must be done to bring about an end to apartheid. (JDH)

This booklet examines Japan's unparalleled economic achievements and its growing political prominence. Reflecting upon Japan's economic, political, and societal dynamism, the document offers helpful insights into how this nation, nearly devoid of natural resources but blessed with a self-sacrificing, highly skilled, and dedicated work force, has…

Public Law 480, whose original intent was to sell surplus foodstuffs to famine-stricken nations, evolved into a program of obtaining foreign language materials for libraries with the large quantities of soft currencies obtained through the food sales. The acquisition effort developed ambitious goals for systematic improvement of the quality of…

A robust and distinctive society of over 15 million people, Australia today is a nation of increasing influence in the international community. Phases in the evolution of Australia's attitude to the outside world are examined and how the country views its international role is discussed. (RM)

Comments on the declining interest in foreign language and culture studies as a manifestation of ethnocentrism negatively affecting our international policies and our understanding of the differences within American society. Mentions the American Association of State Colleges and Universities' policy statement and the New Jersey's state-wide plan…