Taiwan and the World: Small in Size, Global in Impact

Course Description

Summary

Taiwan was the first country in the region to legalize same-sex marriage, the first to elect a female president, and today women make up about 42% of its national legislature.

All this goes to show that Taiwan's global influence far exceeds its size. Known as “Formosa” (“beautiful island”), it attracts visitors with its landscapes, rich food culture, and personable warmth.

Taiwan’s story raises important questions. Why is a country with one of the world’s best national health insurance systems, ranked number one globally for eight consecutive years, excluded from the World Health Organization? Why is one of Asia’s most democratic, humanitarian societies shut out of the United Nations?

Taiwan provides over 60% of the world’s semiconductors and more than 90% of advanced chips, yet it sits on the most heavily militarized missile zone along the First Island Chain, living under the constant threat of military intimidation. 

This course guides students to explore the many stories of this mountainous island.

This course is conducted entirely in English.