In addition to outlining the political processes and institutions of the countries in Southeast Asia, this valuable volume traces their past and explains how they have transformed themselves into the countries they are today. It is the perfect text for undergraduate and postgraduate students of Asian studies, political science, and history. It is also the ideal book for all those desiring a better understanding of the intricate political society of Southeast Asia.

Constructing the modern state --Authority and legitimacy -- Economic and political development -- Security issues -- Burma: the garrison state -- Thailand: the survivor mandala -- Laos: the land in between -- Cambodia: 'the dancing country' -- Vietnam: the little dragon -- Malaysia: inclusion and exclusion -- Brunei: floating on oil -- Philippines: oligarchic democracy -- Singapore: the corporate state -- Indonesia: diversity in unity -- East Timor: the difficult birth of a new state.