This text offers historical depth and sophisticated theoretical insight into contemporary life in the archipelago. Organized as a set of interrelated thematic essays rather than a chronological account, the book addresses key topics which should be of interest to the academic and non- academic reader, such as the national level electoral politics, economic growth, the Philippine Chinese, law and order, opposition, the Left, and local and ethnic politics. Drawing on a wide variety of primary and secondary sources, as well as over a decade of research since the 1990s and work in the area, Hedman and Sidel provide an overview of the contemporary and historical scene of a much misunderstood part of South East Asia. It should fill an important gap in the literature for anyone interested in understanding the Philippines as well as students of politics, Asian studies, comparative politics, economics and sociology.

The only book length study to cover the Philippines after Marco's downfall, this key title thematically explores issues affecting this fascinating country, throughout the last century. Appealing to both the academic and non academic reader, topics covered include:
national level electoral politics
economic growth
the Philippine Chinese
law and order
opposition
the Left
local and ethnic politics.