Looking at the Sun: The Rise of the New East Asian ... (ISBN 0679761624)

Still Relevant:
This excellent book describes the fundamental differences between Asian and American capitalism. Illustrating his arguments with personal narratives, James Fallows argues that Japan is setting an Asian model of capitalism that Western policymakers fail to grasp. Thus, when the Wall Street Journal talks about Asian nations needing to raise consumer spending, the newspaper fails to take into account the fundamental differences. Fallows contends that this failure holds signifcant policymaking concerns for America. One could argue that the collaspe of the Asian markets renders their system invalid, but the Asians remain firm to their model to this day, despite IMF (American) attempts to change their minds. Fallows dives into an area that America frequently fails to consult in making policy decisions: history. Looking at the Sun is still an excellent and relevant read for anyone intrested in Asian affairs.

Flat earthers...:
People are chasing "The world is flat" instead of "Looking at the Sun"...but this book gives you more cultural background information and analytical thinking.