Morris L. Bian

Associate Professor of History

306B Thach Hall, Auburn University

Education If history represents the past, then studying that past is essential for understanding the present, because the present is an extension and modification of the past.  To put it a little differently, historical study is fundamentally about understanding continuity and change: under what circumstances does history repeat itself and under what circumstances do societies revise existing patterns to meet the changing needs of human communities?

Such a philosophy of history has guided my research as well as my teaching of history.  In research I have explored how the sustained systemic crisis triggered by the Sino-Japanese War (1937-45) shaped the formation of the state enterprise system in modern China.  In teaching I have attempted to explain to thoughtful students the basic processes and patterns of continuity and change in modern Chinese history, in East Asian history, and in world history.

Students interested in taking Modern China, Survey of East Asian History, World History, as well as my Graduate Seminar in Modern World History, are encouraged to drop by my office or contact me by email.

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Last modified 05/10, 2005