Recent economic, political, and social changes clearly show that broader
and deeper understanding of Asia is essential. Despite the significance of
Asian culture, the study of Asia has traditionally received little
emphasis in our educational system. As the United States becomes a more
pluralistic society, and as Asian economic and political influence
continue to grow, such inattention clearly runs counter to our national
interest.
Developments in each decade since World War II have alerted Americans to
the importance of Asia. From a longer perspective, Asian cultures and
history have had profound effects on our own. The Asian Studies minor is
designed to give Carthage students an effective and inter disciplinary
education on the different dimensions of this significant region.