Ex-American about his 32 years in Singapore

Ron Kauffman is an ex-American who spent 32 years in Singapore. He has a unique perspective on the country and how it has evolved over the years. In a video interview, he shared some of his experiences and insights with the interviewer. He talked about the culture and the people of Singapore, as well as the challenges he faced during his time there. He also discussed the changes he has seen in the country and the ways in which it has transformed over the years. Overall, Ron Kauffman's story provides an interesting glimpse into the history and culture of Singapore.

<aside> 🗂️ "Reflect on your own journey in academia. What are the key areas of expertise you have developed over time? How did these areas come to be your specialisation and how do they inform your current research interests?"

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Well, that's an interesting question. You know, my journey in academia started with a deep interest in history and culture. I was always fascinated by the way societies develop and change over time, and I wanted to understand the underlying forces that drive these processes. So, I studied anthropology and history in college and went on to do my graduate work in Southeast Asian studies.

Over time, my focus shifted more towards the economic and political aspects of development, as I realized that these were critical factors in shaping the trajectory of societies. I became particularly interested in the case of Singapore, which was experiencing rapid economic growth and modernization during the years that I lived there. I was able to witness firsthand the ways in which government policies and private enterprise were transforming the country, and I became deeply engaged in studying these processes.

Today, my research continues to be informed by my experiences in Singapore and my interest in economic and political development. I'm particularly interested in the role of institutions and governance in shaping development outcomes, and I'm always looking for new ways to explore these issues.