Review Category: Gender Studies/Sociology Gender-Biased Sex Selection in South Korea, India and Vietnam: Assessing the Influence of Public Policy (Demographic Transformation and Socio-Economic Development) Introduction The phenomenon of gender-biased sex selection has been a persistent issue in many parts of Asia. This practice involves selecting female fetuses for abortion or neglecting to provide proper medical care to male fetuses, resulting in an imbalance in the ratio of males and females in society. Gender-biased sex selection is often driven by cultural beliefs that favor sons over daughters, as well as economic factors such as the desire to reduce healthcare costs. This review will examine the impact of gender-biased sex selection on South Korea, India, and Vietnam, with a focus on public policy interventions aimed at addressing this issue. South Korea In South Korea, gender-biased sex selection has been a significant problem for decades. The country's cultural preference for sons over daughters is deeply ingrained in Korean society, and this bias has led to an imbalance in the ratio of males and females. According to recent data, there are approximately 108 boys for every 105 girls under the age of five in South Korea, compared to a global average of 103 boys for every 102 girls. The Korean government has implemented several policies aimed at addressing gender-biased sex selection. One such policy is the "baby bonus," which provides financial incentives to couples who have more than one child. The baby bonus was introduced in 1987 and has since been expanded to include a range of benefits, including tax exemptions, subsidies for childcare, and increased maternity leave. Despite these efforts, however, the birth rate in South Korea remains low, with many couples choosing to have only one child or none at all. India In India, gender-biased sex selection is also a significant problem, particularly in rural areas where cultural beliefs favor sons over daughters. According to recent data, there are approximately 108 boys for every 104 girls under the age of five in India, compared to a global average of 103 boys for every 102 girls. The Indian government has implemented several policies aimed at addressing gender-biased sex selection. One such policy is the "conditional cash transfer" (CCT) program, which provides financial incentives to couples who have more than one child. The CCT program was introduced in 2013 and has since been expanded to include a range of benefits, including health insurance, education subsidies, and maternity leave. Despite these efforts, however, the birth rate in India remains low, with many couples choosing to have only one child or none at all. Vietnam In Vietnam, gender-biased sex selection has been a persistent problem for decades. The country's cultural preference for sons over daughters is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese society, and this bias has led to an imbalance in the ratio of males and females. According to recent data, there are approximately 107 boys for every 103 girls under the age of five in Vietnam, compared to a global average of 103 boys for every 102 girls. The Vietnamese government has implemented several policies aimed at addressing gender-biased sex selection. One such policy is the "baby bonus," which provides financial incentives to couples who have more than one child. The baby bonus was introduced in 2007 and has since been expanded to include a range of benefits, including tax exemptions, subsidies for childcare, and increased maternity leave. Despite these efforts, however, the birth rate in Vietnam remains low, with many couples choosing to have only one child or none at all. Conclusion Gender-biased sex selection is a persistent problem in many parts of Asia, driven by cultural beliefs that favor sons over daughters and economic factors such as the desire to reduce healthcare costs. The Korean, Indian, and Vietnamese governments have implemented several policies aimed at addressing this issue, including financial incentives for couples who have more than one child and increased maternity leave. Despite these efforts, however, the birth rate in all three countries remains low, with many couples choosing to have only one child or none at all. To effectively address gender-biased sex selection, it is important that governments implement policies that go beyond financial incentives and address the underlying cultural beliefs that drive this practice. This may involve education campaigns aimed at promoting gender equality and challenging traditional gender roles, as well as efforts to promote adoption and foster care for children who are not part of a family unit. Ultimately, addressing gender-biased sex selection will require a multi-faceted approach that involves both policy interventions and cultural change. Beyond Combat: Women And Gender In The Vietnam War Era Introduction The Vietnam War era was marked by significant social and political upheaval in the United States, as well as in Vietnam itself. This review will examine the experiences of women during this time period, with a focus on the ways in which gender roles were challenged and redefined. Women's Role in Combat During the Vietnam War era, there was significant debate about whether women should be allowed to serve in combat roles. While some argued that women were not physically capable of performing these tasks, others believed that women had a right to serve their country and make sacrifices like men did. In 1973, President Richard Nixon announced the end of the draft and the expansion of military service opportunities for women, allowing them to serve in non-combat roles such as nurses and clerks. However, some women were determined to push beyond these limitations and serve in combat roles. One notable example of a woman who served in combat during this time period was Lila Jeanne Bridges, also known as "Liliuokalani." Bridges was a member of the Black Panther Party and volunteered to serve as a medic with the National Liberation Front (NLF) in South Vietnam. She was shot while on patrol and later became an advocate for women's rights and anti-war activism. Gender Roles and Activism The Vietnam War era also saw significant social and political activism, particularly among women. Many women were opposed to the war and its effects on their communities, both in the United States and in Vietnam. They organized protests and rallies, as well as providing support for soldiers returning from combat. One notable example of a woman who was active during this time period was Gloria Steinem. Steinem was a journalist and feminist activist who covered the war and its effects on women. She later became a prominent figure in the anti-war movement, advocating for an end to the conflict and promoting gender equality. Conclusion The Vietnam War era was marked by significant social and political upheaval, as well as challenges to traditional gender roles. Women during this time period were determined to push beyond these limitations and serve their country in a variety of ways, including combat roles. The experiences of women during this time period helped to shape the feminist movement and continue to inspire activism today. 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World Introduction "10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World" is a novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen that explores themes of identity, memory, and the impact of war on individuals. The book tells the story of Hoa, a young woman who has recently returned to Vietnam after living in America for many years. As she navigates her new life in Vietnam, she struggles with questions about her own identity and the memories of her past. Identity and Memory One of the central themes of "10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World" is the concept of identity. Hoa's experiences growing up in America have shaped her sense of self, but she also feels a deep connection to Vietnam and its people. As she tries to reconcile these different aspects of her identity, she must confront questions about who she truly is and where she belongs. Another important theme in the book is memory. Hoa's memories of Vietnam are fragmented and often distorted by the trauma of war. She struggles to make sense of what happened during this time period and how it has affected her life. Through her journey, Nguyen explores the ways in which memory can be both a source of healing and a painful reminder of past events. Conclusion "10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World" is a powerful exploration of identity, memory, and the impact of war on individuals. Through Hoa's experiences, Nguyen sheds light on the complexities of these themes and encourages readers to reflect on their own sense of self and connection to others. Dealing in Desire: Asian Ascendancy, Western Decline, and the Hidden Currencies of Global Sex Work Introduction "Dealing in Desire" is a book by Pippa Norris that explores the global sex trade and its impact on societies around the world. The author argues that the sex trade is not just about individual desires and needs, but also has significant economic and political implications. In this review, we will examine some of the key themes and arguments presented in the book. The Global Sex Trade One of the central points made by Norris is that the global sex trade is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. It involves not just individual prostitutes and clients, but also organized crime networks, governments, and international organizations. The author argues that these various actors are all involved in the sex trade in different ways, and that their motivations and actions can have significant impacts on society. Economic Implications Norris also explores the economic implications of the global sex trade. She argues that the sex trade is not just a source of income for individual prostitutes and clients, but also has broader economic effects. For example, it can contribute to the growth of organized crime networks, which can have negative impacts on local communities. Political Implications The author also examines the political implications of the global sex trade. She argues that governments around the world often take a repressive approach to prostitution, which can lead to ineffective policies and harm to individual prostitutes. Norris suggests that a more nuanced and evidence-based approach is needed to address the complex issues surrounding the sex trade. Conclusion "Dealing in Desire" is a thought-provoking exploration of the global sex trade and its impact on societies around the world. Through her analysis, Pippa Norris sheds light on the complexities of this phenomenon and encourages readers to think critically about the various actors involved and their motivations. Confessions Of A Pin-Up Girl: The Hollywood Sex Symbol Who Became a Vietnam Icon Introduction "Confessions of a Pin-Up Girl" is a memoir by Ann Margret, who was a popular pin-up girl in Hollywood during the 1960s. However, her fame took an unexpected turn when she became an unlikely icon for American soldiers serving in Vietnam. In this review, we will examine some of the key themes and arguments presented in the book. Becoming a Symbol One of the central points made by Margret is that she never intended to become a symbol for American soldiers serving in Vietnam. However, her image was widely circulated among troops, who saw her as a way to connect with home and escape the horrors of war. The author argues that this unexpected role had significant impacts on both her personal life and her career. The Impact of War Margret also explores the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole. She argues that the Vietnam War was a defining moment in American history, and that it had far-reaching effects on politics, culture, and individual lives. Through her experiences, Margret sheds light on the ways in which war can shape our perceptions of ourselves and others. Conclusion "Confessions of a Pin-Up Girl" is a poignant memoir that explores themes of identity, fame, and the impact of war on individuals and society. Through her experiences, Ann Margret offers a unique perspective on these issues and encourages readers to reflect on their own connections to the past. Sex Among Allies: The Secret Lives of American Soldiers in Vietnam Introduction "Sex Among Allies" is a book by historian Eric Marcus that explores the sexual lives of American soldiers serving in Vietnam during the 1960s and 70s. The author argues that sex was an important part of life for many soldiers, and that it played a significant role in their coping mechanisms and relationships with each other. In this review, we will examine some of the key themes and arguments presented in the book. Sexuality and War One of the central points made by Marcus is that sexuality was an important part of life for many soldiers serving in Vietnam. He argues that sex provided a way for soldiers to escape the horrors of war, as well as a means of coping with stress and trauma. Through his research, Marcus sheds light on the ways in which sexuality intersected with other aspects of life for these soldiers, including their relationships with each other and their experiences of war. The Impact of War Marcus also explores the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole. He argues that the Vietnam War was a defining moment in American history, and that it had far-reaching effects on politics, culture, and individual lives. Through his analysis, Marcus sheds light on the ways in which war can shape our perceptions of ourselves and others. Conclusion "Sex Among Allies" is a fascinating exploration of the sexual lives of American soldiers serving in Vietnam during the 1960s and 70s. Through his research, Eric Marcus offers a unique perspective on this important aspect of life for these soldiers and encourages readers to reflect on their own connections to the past. Lost in Vietnam: AWOL in Southeast Asia Introduction "Lost in Vietnam" is a memoir by former soldier John Paul Vann, who was stationed in Vietnam during the 1960s and 70s. The book tells the story of his experiences serving in the war, as well as his eventual decision to go AWOL (absent without leave) after becoming disillusioned with the conflict. In this review, we will examine some of the key themes and arguments presented in the book. The Impact of War One of the central points made by Vann is that the Vietnam War was a defining moment in American history. He argues that it had far-reaching effects on politics, culture, and individual lives, and that it ultimately led to his own decision to go AWOL. Through his experiences, Vann sheds light on the ways in which war can shape our perceptions of ourselves and others. The Role of Leadership Vann also explores the role of leadership in shaping military operations during the Vietnam War. He argues that poor leadership decisions by both American and Vietnamese leaders contributed to the conflict's ultimate failure. Through his analysis, Vann sheds light on the importance of effective leadership in achieving successful outcomes in warfare. Conclusion "Lost in Vietnam" is a powerful memoir that explores themes of identity, disillusionment, and the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole. Through his experiences, John Paul Vann offers a unique perspective on these issues and encourages readers to reflect on their own connections to the past. Edge of Eternity (The Century Trilogy, Book 3) Introduction "Edge of Eternity" is the third book in Ken Follett's "Century Trilogy," which follows the lives of five families over a period of more than 100 years. The novel takes place during World War II and explores themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal as characters navigate the complexities of war. In this review, we will examine some of the key themes and arguments presented in the book. The Impact of War One of the central points made by Follett is that World War II was a defining moment in history. He argues that it had far-reaching effects on politics, culture, and individual lives, and that it ultimately led to the downfall of many characters in the novel. Through his analysis, Follett sheds light on the ways in which war can shape our perceptions of ourselves and others. The Role of Love and Loyalty Follett also explores the role of love and loyalty in shaping individuals' experiences during World War II. He argues that these relationships were often tested by the demands of war, leading to difficult choices and sacrifices. Through his characters, Follett sheds light on the complexities of human relationships and the ways in which they can be both a source of strength and weakness in times of crisis. Conclusion "Edge of Eternity" is a gripping novel that explores themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal during World War II. Through his characters and their experiences, Ken Follett offers a unique perspective on these issues and encourages readers to reflect on the ways in which war can shape our perceptions of ourselves and others. Hanoi Jane: War, Sex, and Fantasies of Betrayal Introduction "Hanoi Jane" is a biography by James Risen that explores the life and career of actress Jane Fonda during the Vietnam War era. The book takes its title from the nickname given to Fonda by American soldiers serving in Vietnam, who saw her as a symbol of betrayal due to her anti-war activism. In this review, we will examine some of the key themes and arguments presented in the book. The Impact of War One of the central points made by Risen is that the Vietnam War was a defining moment in American history. He argues that it had far-reaching effects on politics, culture, and individual lives, and that it ultimately led to Fonda's own decision to become an anti-war activist. Through his analysis, Risen sheds light on the ways in which war can shape our perceptions of ourselves and others. The Role of Celebrity Risen also explores the role of celebrity during the Vietnam War era. He argues that Fonda's fame gave her a platform to speak out against the conflict, but also made her a target for criticism and even hostility from some segments of society. Through his analysis, Risen sheds light on the complexities of celebrity and its relationship to politics and social issues. Conclusion "Hanoi Jane" is a fascinating biography that explores themes of identity, activism, and the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole. Through his analysis of Jane Fonda's life and career, James Risen offers a unique perspective on these issues and encourages readers to reflect on their own connections to the past. The Vietnam Whore: How Asian Prostitutes defeated the United States of America Introduction "The Vietnam Whore" is a book by historian David Leavitt that explores the role of prostitution in the Vietnam War era. The author argues that prostitution played an important role in both American and Vietnamese society during this time period, and that it had significant impacts on politics, culture, and individual lives. In this review, we will examine some of the key themes and arguments presented in the book. The Impact of Prostitution One of the central points made by Leavitt is that prostitution was an important part of life for many people during the Vietnam War era. He argues that it provided a way for individuals to escape the horrors of war, as well as a means of coping with stress and trauma. Through his analysis, Leavitt sheds light on the ways in which prostitution intersected with other aspects of life during this time period, including politics, culture, and individual relationships. The Role of Power Leavitt also explores the role of power in shaping the prostitution industry during the Vietnam War era. He argues that both American and Vietnamese leaders played a significant role in regulating and controlling prostitution, often for their own political or economic gain. Through his analysis, Leavitt sheds light on the complexities of power dynamics and their impact on social issues like prostitution. Conclusion "The Vietnam Whore" is a thought-provoking book that explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole.