Political Systems and Governance · Semester 2

Thai Monarchy and Military Coups

Analyzing the unique role of the Thai monarchy as a unifying force amidst frequent military coups and political instability.

About This Topic

This topic examines the 'Asian Values' debate of the 1990s, led by figures like Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Mahathir Mohamad of Malaysia. Students analyze the argument that Western-style liberal democracy and individual rights were not necessarily suitable for Asian societies, which prioritized social harmony, respect for authority, and the collective good. The curriculum explores whether this was a genuine philosophical stance or a political shield to justify authoritarian rule.

Students evaluate the impact of the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis on the credibility of the 'Asian Values' argument and how the discourse has evolved in the 21st century. Understanding this debate is essential for discussing the universality of human rights and the cultural dimensions of governance. This topic comes alive when students can engage in structured debates and comparative analysis of 'Western' vs 'Asian' political philosophies.

Active Learning Ideas

Formal Debate: Universal Rights vs. Cultural Context

Students debate the proposition: 'Human rights are universal and should be applied equally in all societies, regardless of culture.' One side represents the 'universalist' view, while the other represents the 'Asian Values' perspective.

⏱ 50 min·Whole Class

Generate mission

Think-Pair-Share: The 1997 Crisis and Asian Values

Students discuss how the 1997 financial crisis, which exposed 'crony capitalism' in many Asian states, affected the argument that 'Asian' governance was superior. They share their thoughts on whether the crisis 'debunked' the theory.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

Generate mission

Inquiry Circle: The Bangkok Declaration on Human Rights

Groups research the 1993 Bangkok Declaration, where Asian governments articulated their view on human rights. They must identify the key differences between this document and the UN's Universal Declaration.

⏱ 45 min·Small Groups

Generate mission

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

All Asians agreed with the 'Asian Values' argument.

What to Teach Instead

There was significant opposition from Asian civil society, intellectuals, and democratic activists (like Kim Dae-jung) who argued that democracy and human rights were equally 'Asian.' Peer discussion of these 'counter-voices' helps students see the diversity of thought.

Common Misconception

Asian Values were just an excuse for dictatorship.

What to Teach Instead

While used by some to justify authoritarianism, the debate also raised important questions about the 'individualism' of Western societies and the importance of community and family in Asian cultures. A 'nuance map' helps students see both sides of the argument.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the core 'Asian Values'?

The core values typically cited included a preference for social harmony over individual rights, respect for authority and the elderly, a strong work ethic, and the prioritization of the family and the community over the individual.

Who were the main proponents of Asian Values?

The most prominent proponents were Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Mahathir Mohamad of Malaysia, who argued that Asia's rapid economic success was due to these specific cultural values and that Western-style democracy could be destabilizing.

How did the 1997 Financial Crisis affect the debate?

The crisis was seen by many critics as a failure of 'Asian' governance, specifically the lack of transparency and the 'cronyism' that the Asian Values discourse was seen to protect. This led to a decline in the prominence of the 'Asian Values' argument in international forums.

How can active learning help students understand the Asian Values debate?

By debating the 'universality' of rights, students are forced to engage with the philosophical foundations of different political systems. This active engagement helps them understand that governance is not just about 'rules,' but about the underlying values and cultural assumptions of a society.

Browse curriculum by country

• Americas
• US
• CA
• MX
• CL
• CO
• BR

• Europe
• UK
• IE
• FR
• DE
• ES
• IT
• NL
• PT
• SE

• Asia & Pacific
• IN
• SG
• AU