From dominoes to dynamos

The demise of America's Cold War-era foreign policy, has transformed Southeast Asia's relationship with the United States. No longer seen in the political context of communist containment, the countries of Southeast Asia - Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Vietnam - are becoming increasingly powerful players in the world economy. Their unparalleled economic growth will dramatically affect the U.S. economy and its relations to other regional powers such as Japan and China.

How well the United States responds to this challenge and to the opportunity to forge new relationships in the region will significantly shape the success or failure of our performance as a global superpower.

In From Dominoes to Dynamos, John Bresnan, an expert on U.S.-Asian relations, details the steps the United States should take to define a new role in the area. He examines shifting American interests - from strategic to economic - in the region, and surveys the history of an area that includes both historic allies, such as the Philippines, and adversaries, including Vietnam.

The book includes a detailed analysis of current economic trends, as well as recommendations for coping with Japan's growing influence in the Southeast Asian economy and a clear analysis of the direction U.S. foreign policy must take to maintain its position as a leading player in the region.