Fundamental concepts of Southeast Asian studies: The interaction between ideologies of essentialism and cosmopolitanism, defining the intellectual landscape

Abstract

The objective of this research is to explain the development of fundamental concepts relating to Southeast Asian studies. The research found that the concepts are justified by essentialism and cosmopolitanism where they are adapted in accordance with the context of knowledge that changes overtime. The conceptual frameworks originating from oriental studies to area studies are used to define the intellectual landscape. It is derived from genealogy of intellectual traditions and essential principles. These have created new concepts of Southeast Asian studies in two aspects; 1) neighbour studies through the theory of Asia as method; and 2) regional studies through the comparative area studies (CAS). Both studies lead to trans-disciplinary concepts which are important to the new discipline Southeast Asian studies that is engaged with the current ASEAN community context.