Critical Asian Studies: The Evolution of a Scholarly Journal

Critical Asian Studies: The Evolution of a Scholarly Journal

The landscape of academic discourse on Asia has been significantly shaped by publications that challenge conventional narratives. One such influential publication is the journal now known as Critical Asian Studies, which emerged from a period of intense political upheaval and scholarly activism.

The Origins of the Publication

The journal was conceived in 1967 by the Committee of Concerned Asian Scholars. This group was formed by young academics who coalesced around a shared opposition to the involvement of the United States in the Vietnam War. Their goal was to create a space for scholarly work that addressed the political realities of the region from a critical perspective.

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Evolution and Identity

For over three decades, the publication operated under a different title. From 1968 until 2001, it was published as the Bulletin of Concerned Asian Scholars. During this era, the journal established itself as a provocative voice in the academic community.

Fabio Lanza, reflecting on the journal's early years, described its inception as "radical, vibrant, at times excessive, and always politically minded." This description highlights the journal's commitment to integrating political consciousness with academic rigor.

Key Facts

  • Founded: 1967
  • Founding Body: Committee of Concerned Asian Scholars
  • Original Name: Bulletin of Concerned Asian Scholars (1968–2001)
  • Primary Catalyst: Opposition to U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War
  • Characterization: Described by Fabio Lanza as radical, vibrant, and politically minded
Timeline of the Journal's Development
Year/Period Milestone Context
1967 Conception Formed by the Committee of Concerned Asian Scholars
1968–2001 Bulletin of Concerned Asian Scholars Published under its original title
Post-2001 Critical Asian Studies Transition to current journal name

Frequently Asked Questions

Who founded the journal?

The journal was conceived by the Committee of Concerned Asian Scholars, a group of young scholars.

What was the original name of the publication?

From 1968 to 2001, the journal was published as the Bulletin of Concerned Asian Scholars.

What political event influenced the creation of the journal?

The journal was born out of scholarly opposition to the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War.

How has the journal's early tone been described?

Fabio Lanza characterized the journal at its start as being radical, vibrant, occasionally excessive, and consistently politically minded.

References

  1. "Editorial board". Critical Asian Studies. Routledge. Retrieved 15 February 2026.
  2. The End of Concern: Maoist China, Activism, and Asian Studies. Duke University Press. 31 August 2017. ISBN 9780822372431.
  3. "Critical Asian Studies". MIAR: Information Matrix for the Analysis of Journals. University of Barcelona. Retrieved 2022-12-31.
  4. "Critical Asian Studies". 2024 Journal Citation Reports (Science ed.). Clarivate. 2025 – via Web of Science.