Asia in the Post-Cold War Era

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how religious ideology has impacted the development of national identity throughout Asia and the South Pacific over the past twenty years. The paper begins with an analysis of India in the post-colonial era, which the author asserts has proven to be one of the most effective yet exclusive countries in the world. The paper demonstrates how the division of culture and diversity has been created by the development of the independent nation of Pakistan, almost solely based upon national pride and religious differences. The paper also discusses the impact of poverty as a dividing force in the nation, since those who are members of the dominant faith tend to be allowed more opportunity, whether by virtue of their familial past or by virtue of a discriminatory system. Next the paper turns to the transformation of Japan from an ancient to ultra-modern society, which is viewed by many as a western triumph. Yet the paper notes that the country has been culturally whitewashed of its tradition and simplicity. The paper concludes with a brief examination of other trends in national identity in Southeast Asia, including in Korea and Hong Kong.

From the Paper:

"The post-cold war era, far from making the "end of history" and the triumph of the western ideal, will be characterized by increased global fragmentation and the "clash of civilizations" based on ethical, cultural and religious distinctions. Cultural identity has replaced any shared ideology that had existed as the dominant global perspective in world affairs. To a great degree nationalism, be it exclusive or inclusive of cultural minorities has become the driving force behind many world decisions and the many lessons of diversity, taught over the last 50 plus years have congealed into the pride of ideological difference that is created by the borders of ones nation and the culture of the people within it. The catch twenty-two of diversity has become fragmented ideologies of exclusion of diversity rather than inclusive of difference and equality. Within this collective there are many forces at work that create exclusion, the most influential being religious ideology, be it by representation alone, or by true religious cohesion."

More papers on Asia in the Post-Cold War Era:

• Essay # 22304 : "The U.N. In The Post-Cold War Era"
• Analytical Essay # 90510 : "The Post-Cold War World"
• Essay # 2751 : "Post-Cold War Economic Integration"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: