Australia's ambivalent re-imagining of Asia
Date
2010
Authors
Johnson, C.
Ahluwalia, D.
McCarthy, G.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Australian Journal of Political Science, 2010; 45(1):59-74
Statement of Responsibility
Conference Name
Abstract
This article argues that 'Asia' has tended to function as an ambivalent 'sign' in Australian political discourse, signifying both fear and hope. That ambivalence is reflected in Australian government policy. The article focuses on the period from Gough Whitlam on, tracing the links between debates over Australian relations with Asia and key issues in Australian domestic politics, including debates over immigration, the economy and Australian national identity. Key differences are identified between the views of John Howard and those of recent Australian Labor Prime Ministers. However, it is pointed out that Kevin Rudd also has ambivalent attitudes towards Asia, both encouraging Asian engagement as a path to future prosperity and fearing that Australia will be left behind in an increasingly 'Asian Century'.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Access Status
Rights
© 2010 Informa plc