Public Health and Cold War Politics in Asia

Bu and her contributors examine the complexities of tensions and negotiations in the development of public health systems in Asia during the early Cold War, highlighting the role of health as a sociopolitical matter and a fundamental human right. The book is a valuable resource for historians and policymakers interested in public health and Asia during the Cold War.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The contributors to this volume, led by Bu, vividly illustrate the intricate dynamics and negotiations that shaped the development of various public health systems in Asia during the early Cold War era. As competing models of development, driven by distinct political ideologies and economic enterprises, gained increasing influence in Asian countries post-World War II, they embarked on the challenging task of building modern nations. By examining examples from China, Japan, South and North Korea, India, and Indonesia, the contributors delve into how these diverse Asian countries navigated the postcolonial challenge. Health, as a pivotal domain, played a significant role in sustaining the political discourse that aimed to differentiate one society from another and promote the advantages of each system. Central to this discourse was the promotion of public health and welfare, recognizing the right to health as a fundamental human right and an essential social justice. A healthy population was deemed crucial for national economic prosperity, as it fostered economic productivity and ensured national well-being.

In postwar Asia, public health emerged as a multifaceted sociopolitical concern, intertwining individual well-being with the advancement of nations. The health of the people not only reflected a nation's progress but also provided a solid foundation for economic growth and national prosperity. This volume serves as a valuable resource for historians, policymakers, and scholars interested in the field of public health, as well as in the history of Asia during the Cold War. By delving into the complexities of these historical periods, it offers valuable insights into the ongoing challenges and opportunities faced by societies in the pursuit of health and well-being.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032330921