Area Studies focus on the history, politics, economics, demographics, and geography of a given country or region (such as the Andes, South Pacific, or Central Asia). Area Studies also create profiles that can be used to predict or explain current events. Traditionally, they were data driven and often highly quantitative in nature. Relatively recently, many scholars in the field have embraced a more interpretive perspective and focus on more qualitative areas, including religion, literature, music, philosophy, and even art history.
Area Studies have key differences with related Social Sciences. Ethnic Studies are written from the perspective of the group being studied. Area Studies, on the other hand, are generally written from an outsiders perspective. Unlike Anthropology, the 'culture concept', is not a central organizing theme for the discipline. Area Studies are distinct from Sociology in that they do not primarily focus on social relationships and institutions.
Study focus on globalization, international governance and cultural change. Degree program jointly run by universities in Freiburg, New Delhi, and Singapore. www.global-studies.de
Network of networks for research and cooperation in cultural development. Features databank of regional policies, institutions, and resources; current publications and research; membership and participation information. www.culturelink.org
Portal hosted by Western Connecticut State University, Department of Social Sciences features links to resources related to area studies. www.wcsu.ctstateu.edu/socialsci/area.html
A research unit at Johns Hopkins University that specializes in the study of global power, culture, and history. Features newsletter, calendar of events and program information. www.jhu.edu/~igscph
Non-profit organization dedicated to geographic, political, economic and historical information for many countries and regions. Features catalog of area studies, as well as contact information and mission statement for the group. www.n2geo.org/home.html
Information from the CIA World Fact Book, United Nations Statistical Office, Library of Congress Country Studies and other sources. Features calculated country ranks, maps, country and airport codes. www.theodora.com/wfb
Search engine from Michigan State University features access to courses, maps, news, data sources, and current research. Database is sorted by region, country, thematic area, constituency group, and resource type. www.msuglobalaccess.net
Meta search engine allows visitors to query multiple data archives based on country and topic. Features geographic interface, keyword and topic specification. denali.ncgia.ucsb.edu/worldrob/viewer.htm
Provides country and regional graphs and descriptive statistics based on geography, military, economy, crime, education, and transportation. www.nationmaster.com
Provides information on the history, geography, economy, political situation and culture of countries. Sponsored by the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/../cil-cai/inter-source/menu-en.asp
Directory features articles about different countries organized by continent and offers information on natural resources, people, arts, economy, government, and history. www.countriesquest.com
Gives an overview of economics, politics, healthcare, nutrition and crimes rates occurring in nations around the world, especially as it affects children. www.unicef.org/infobycountry
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