Pan-Asianism and the Legacy of the Chinese Revolution

Viren Murthy's book provides an intellectual history of pan-Asianist discourse in the twentieth century, revealing a tradition of resistance and alternative visions. It highlights the notions of a unity of Asian nations, weak nations becoming powerful, and the Third World confronting the "advanced world" on equal terms. Murthy argues that the resurgence of pan-Asianist discourse has emerged alongside the dominance of capitalism, signaling a profound misunderstanding of its roots, history, and potential.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Pan-Asianism, a concept that has gained renewed attention in the contemporary era, has been largely overlooked in the historical context of influential twentieth-century thinkers. In his book, Viren Murthy delves into the intellectual history of the writings of theorists, intellectuals, and activists who proposed new ways of thinking about Asia in their own historical and political contexts. Through a comprehensive exploration of pan-Asianist discourse across the twentieth century, Murthy reveals a rich tradition of resistance and alternative visions that challenge the contemporary discourse on pan-Asianism.

At the core of pan-Asianist thinking, Murthy identifies three fundamental notions: the unity of Asian nations, the empowerment of weak nations, and the confrontation of the Third World with the "advanced world" on equal terms. This idea expanded to include non-Asian countries within the global community of Asian nations. However, pan-Asianists had broader aspirations, envisioning a future beyond both imperialism and capitalism.

It is significant to note that the resurgence of pan-Asianist discourse has coincided with the dominance of capitalism, leading Murthy to argue that there is a profound misunderstanding of its roots, history, and potential. By examining the writings of these influential thinkers, Murthy provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of pan-Asianism and its relevance in the contemporary world. His book offers a fresh perspective on the complexities of Asia's past and present, challenging us to reevaluate our assumptions and explore new avenues for regional cooperation and development.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226828008