State Capacity In East Asia

This book examines the state capacity of four East Asian countries - China, Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam - and argues that even though the modern state is constantly being shaped by social interaction, the state is still alive and can adapt to outside pressures. The book also argues that the ability to adapt and develop new capacities and institutions is at the heart of the East Asian states' recovery from the deep economic and social crisis of 1997-99.

Examining states and state capacity in four countries - China, Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam - that have experienced rapid economic growth over several decades, this book is informed by the view that even though modern market forces and transnational corporations exert new pressures which erode some powers formerly held by the nation-state, it is much too early to declare the state dead. The modern state is constantly being shaped by social interaction in a process of mutual empowerment at both the central and local level. States also have a history which is built into their structures and ideology and will influence the way they change and adapt to outside pressures. The book argues that the capability to adapt and to develop new capacities and institutions is at the heart of the Asian states' recovery from the deep economic and social crisis of 1997-99. Review: This book has made a significant contribution to our understanding of state capacity and the states in East Asia The China Quarterly