Book excerpt: This book takes account of the global financial crisis from Asian perspectives, considering Asian responses to the crisis via two key arenas – regionalism in Asia and the G20. The expert contributors – both Asian and Western – illustrate that as G20 members, many Asian countries are now able to showcase their increasing powers and influence on global issues. Within this context, and via multidisciplinary economic and political science perspectives, the book deals with various issues such as World System analysis, the debate between the Washington Consensus and the Beijing Consensus, roles within the G20, and the contribution of 'middle' powers such as Korea and Australia. The application of European experiences to Asia is also considered, as are perspectives from the US. The book concludes that the key to resolving the current global economic crisis lies in how quickly a new global governance and monitoring system can be constructed, and that there are multiple roles for Asian countries to play in its development. Written with a uniquely multidisciplinary approach, this book will prove a fascinating read for a wide-ranging audience encompassing academics, students, researchers and policymakers in a number of fields including Asian studies, economics, public policy and regional studies.