These Islands Are Ours

Explore the intricate dynamics of territorial disputes in Northeast Asia with "These Islands Are Ours" by Alexander Bukh. Published in 2020, this compelling book delves into the socio-political and economic underpinnings of national claims over areas often deemed strategically insignificant, yet they provoke intense nationalism and political tension.

Bukh examines real-world examples, including the remote islets known as Dokdo in South Korea and Takeshima in Japan, to illustrate how public perception can elevate trivial territories to national pride. With 277 pages of insightful analysis, this book reveals why such disputes persist, even when negotiators once acknowledged their lack of substantial value. It draws on historical and contemporary perspectives, making it an essential read for anyone interested in foreign relations, political science, or the complex social conditions that shape national identities.

Join Bukh in navigating these contested waters and gain a deeper understanding of the underlying forces that drive East Asia's territorial conflicts.