An introduction to contemporary political development in Northeast Asia. Applies Western modernisation theory to the process of socio-political and economic change in China, Japan, South and North Korea and Taiwan. Also discusses the relationship of these countries to the outside world. Their internal politics are analysed in the context of history, culture and economic development. Topics include: land and people, political culture, state/society relationship, environment, ideology and nationalism, government, the military and political parties. Examines similarities and differences in political development among the countries in the region. One particular emphasis will be on the on-going reform and democratisation process in Northeast Asia.