Power and Knowledge in Southeast Asia: State and Scholars in Indonesia and the Philippines

This book explores the relationship between state-sponsored history writing projects in Indonesia and the Philippines in the 1970s, highlighting the mutual need or partnership between scholars and political actors. It proposes the need to embrace rather than deny or transcend the entwined power/knowledge if scholarship is to realize its progressive visions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 29 October 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate realms of state-sponsored history writing projects in Indonesia and the Philippines during the vibrant 1970s. By examining these projects, which were initiated under the authoritarian regimes of Suharto and Marcos, the author sheds light on the contents and contexts of these endeavors, while also providing a nuanced portrayal of the complex relationship between embodiments of power (such as the state, dictators, and government officials) and knowledge (intellectuals, historians, and history).

Renowned as Sejarah Nasional Indonesia (SNI) and the Tadhana project, these projects emerged amidst the backdrop of rising and competing nationalisms, as well as the regimes' efforts to consolidate their power. The interplay between actors and the politico-academic contexts played a pivotal role in determining whether scholarship and politics would clash, mutually support, or coexist in parallel. Contrary to the notion of one side manipulating or co-opting the other, this study reveals the mutual need or partnership between scholars and political actors in these projects.

The book proposes a compelling argument for embracing rather than denying or transcending the entwined power/knowledge dynamic if scholarship is to realize its truly progressive visions. By analyzing the dynamics of state-scholar relations in these two countries, this work will appeal to academics specializing in Southeast Asian history and politics, nationalism, historiography, intellectual history, postcolonial studies, cultural studies, and the sociology of knowledge.

Through its comprehensive analysis, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of power, knowledge, and scholarship in the context of authoritarian regimes. It serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of human intellect and the potential for collaboration and progress in the face of challenging circumstances.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138344945