The role of identity provides an organizing theme which allows students to see connections between different aspects of Asian American politics. Andrew Aoki and Okiyoshi Takeda explain how the fate of Asian Americans has been powerfully influenced by the way they have been portrayed in the media, and more generally, in US society. Students are introduced to the “forever foreigner” image, which has helped to marginalise Asian Americans, and the “model minority” myth, which can give policymakers misleading impressions. The book also stresses how Asian Americans have worked to take control of their image and political fortunes. Students learn how the Asian American Movement helped to promote a “panethnic” identity which could strengthen Asian American political influence.
Asian American Politics is a lively and accessible introduction, ideal for students taking courses in race and politics.
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"Aoki and Takeda have masterfully written a superb textbook that captures and analyzes the dynamic impact of the 15 million Asian Americans on United States politics and race relations. The voting patterns, social movements, elected officials, inter-racial coalitions and conflicts, and other major political activities of the rapidly growing and diverse Asian American population are presented in a lively, engaging, and highly readable manner. This is a cornerstone book for classes in American politics, race and ethnic studies, Asian American Studies, and public policy."
Don Nakanishi, University of California, Los Angeles
"Now, at last, we have a book that directly addresses the politics of, by, and for Asian Americans. It is long past due, and extremely welcome. Students, researchers, and activists alike are indebted to Aoki and Takeda."
Jennifer Hochschild, Harvard University
Okiyoshi Takeda is Associate Professor of Political Science at Aoyama Gakuin University.
