Basic information
Classification

Course in Major

Timetable code
Course title
MainInstructor

Grade Level
Lecture category

KUPES (Kobe University Programme forEuropean Studies) Specialized CourseProfessor Noemi Lanna

Day・Period

First, second, third, fourth year major
students; master students.
Fall semester
Please see below “Course outline andplan”

Credit(s)1Detailed information■Course theme and objectives
Title: Regional integration in East Asia and Europe. A historical perspective.
Description: The aim of the course is to analyze the process of regional integration in East Asia andEurope in a historical perspective. As will be pointed out in the methodological introduction, a historicallygrounded analysis is particularly useful to understand the development of regionalization in Europe andin East Asia. In both regions, specific historical conditions acted as strategic constraints conducive to theforming of geopolitical units characterized by common institutions, shared norms and a consistent degreeof economic interdependence. Yet despite these similarities, integration developed in distinctive ways inthe two regional sub-systems. Presenting a comparative overview of the main stages in the history ofEuropean and Asian integration, the course will help students to identify and to critically assess thepeculiar features of regionalization in Europe and East Asia.
Objectives:-Acquire a basic knowledge of the main events and processes that have led to major changes or tocontinuity in the history of European and Asian regional integration.
-Gain an understanding of the historical factors and dynamics that shaped the regionalization process inthe two regions.
-Learn to make sense of the origins and nature of contemporary issues in light of past events and develop
a foundation for future understanding.
■Course outline and planDay 1. Introduction: conceptualizing the region. An evolutionary approach to regional integration in East
Asia and Europe: why history is crucial to explore the regionalization process. The historical roots of theEuropean Union and of the East-Asian project of regional integration.
Day 2. Constructing the European Community/Union; envisaging an East Asian Community: the role ofcompeting interests, power asymmetries, shared norms and ideas.
Day 3. Case-study: East Asia and Europe facing the refugee crises.
Day 4. Recent trends and future perspectives for regional integration in East Asia.

■Assessment and criteria
Attendance and participation in class: 20 per centOral exercise: 30 per centOral exam: 50 per centStudents are expected to discuss a given issue by critically reviewing the material presented during thecourse.
■ Preparation, revision and other information
No prior knowledge is required.
■ Message to students
Dear students, if you are interested in looking at the history of the European integration from a different
perspective, this course is for you. Bring your enthusiasm and your thirst for knowledge and don’t beafraid to speak up in discussions.
■Textbook
Power-point slides will be presented. Some documents will be proposed.

■Reference book and other materials■Medium of instruction
Lessons with discussion and oral exercises■Key words: regional integration, European regionalism, Asian regionalism.

■Reference URL