Why do some dictators stay in power for many years while others do not? What forces sustain and undermine democratic governance? Under what conditions do average citizens mobilize successfully to demand political change? We will examine these questions by studying the politics of Southeast Asia, one of the most culturally and politically diverse regions of the globe. Composed of eleven countries, Southeast Asia covers a wide geographical region stretching from India to China. With a rich endowment of natural resources, a dynamic manufacturing base, and a strategic location on China's southern flank, the region has come to play an increasingly important role in the political and economic affairs of the globe. Culturally and ethnically diverse, hundreds of languages are spoken in the region, and the religions practiced include Buddhism, Catholocism, Hinduism, and Islam. Indonesia is not only the fourth largest nation in the world but the largest Muslim majority country in the world. The political systems range from the formally democratic through civilian authoritarianism to military authoritarianism. Because the region is so diverse, the introduction must necessarily be incomplete. Readings and lectures will focus on seven countries: Burma, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.