Nov 20, 2024
In this episode, host Francine Barchett interviewed Dr. Eric
Thompson, an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology and
Anthropology at the National University of Singapore. He describes
the development and recent publication of his book, "The Story of
Southeast Asia." Cutting across anthropology, archeology, history,
and other disciplines, Dr. Thompson recounts the many regional
themes that had inspired this writing. He reconsiders colonialism’s
influence in Southeast Asia, highlights its unique interplay of
religions and religious diversity, and revisits the long-standing
debate: what actually is Southeast Asia? He also surprises Francine
with some unexpected tidbits, including a fun fact involving none
other than Taylor Swift and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Lightning Round: 3:36
Research and fieldwork summary: 11:03
Advice for researchers and recommendations:
47:33
Eric Thompson’s top recommendations:
This Earth of Mankind - a film adaptation of Bumi Manusia by Pramoedya Ananta Toer
Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan by Syamsul Yusof
Sultan Agung Mataram 1628 and Kartini: Princess of Java by Hanung Bramantyo
The music on the podcast is from "14 Strings!", a Filipino style
Rondalla group established in Cornell University. Check them
out here.
Produced by Adam Farihin, Neen Tangcharoenmonkong, and Cecilia
Liu.