The Rise of Asia and US Policy In this course we will study what is arguably the most important strategic development of the 21st century: how the rise of Asia presents security challenges to the region and the United States. Drawing from international relations scholarship, the course will focus on foreign policy challenges and potential responses. These challenges include both traditional security and nontraditional  areas such as water and the environment. We will integrate the analysis of these issues in South, East, and Southeast Asia with study of the policy process, in part  through simulations and role-playing exercises.

International Diplomacy and Modern South Asia In this course we will examine current political and economic issues in the countries of South Asia - Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Bhutan. We will first examine the background of the South Asian region in general (pre-colonial and colonial eras) and of South Asian countries after independence. We will look at specific interstate and intrastate issues, focusing on the combined quests for political stability and economic development. Students will look at topical issues from the perspective of an officer working in a U.S. Embassy or in a U.S. foreign policy agency. The course will combine rigorous academic understanding of the region with current policy issues. Readings will include both academic studies and contemporary policy/issues papers.

Identity and Conflict in South Asia In this course we will examine political development and conflict in South Asia through the concept of identity. South Asians take on a variety of identities -- ethnic, religious, linguistic, caste, national, etc. These identities often form the basis of political mobilization and both inter- and intrastate conflict.  We will study the general concept of identity, including how identities are constructed and used, and then specific manifestations in South Asia. We will also examine the question of whether these identities were constructed during colonial or post-colonial times, or have an earlier basis. (International Relations and Foreign Policy)/

Jeffrey Lunstead

Reviews and ratings for Jeffrey Lunstead at Middlebury College.Jeffrey Lunstead teaches Rise of Asia and U.S. Policy, Intl Diplomacy and Mod. S Asia, Identity/Conflict South Asia and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Jeffrey Lunstead good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

It is such a fun senior seminar. I love Prof. Jeff Lunstead. He assigns fewer readings, but they are very relevant to what he will talk about in class. His readings help him understand the lecture very well. He is a fair grader and has a great sense of humor. His courses are not as heavy as many other political science classes.  

This was an amazing class with Professor Lunstead. The course covered all the major players in Asia and how they related to the U.S. pivot. There was so much to discuss, especially with Trump's tariff threats, making the class feel very current and relevant.

Lunstead is super nice, and he is educated about the topic he teaches. He is available for office hours often and always answers his emails. This class is what you make of it. If you know nothing about south Asia, this is a great introductory class on international politics relating to the area. 