Acknowledgements

This book is an outgrowth of my PhD thesis, which was completed at National University of Singapore (NUS)in 2014. Manyat the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences have given me invaluable comment or advice on earlier versions of this book. I would like to particularlythank Ismail Talib, my thesis supervisor, for giving me the freedom to pursue my research interests. His respect and trust have inspired an inter-disciplinary approach adopted in the study. I am also immensely grateful to Bao Zhimingfor his intellectual stimulation, Ho Chee Lickfor his sincere encouragement, and Peter Tan for his meticulous comments. Acknowledgements are also due for thehelp from John Richardsonand the friendly administrative staff at NUS.

I wish to express my deep gratitude to Eddie Kuo,who was generous in giving advice, sometimes unpalatable, but often with penetrating insights. I am also indebted to Tan Zaixi, who gave me very constructive criticism of certain sections of the manuscript. The apt, meticulousand illuminatingcomments from Yves Gambier and the anonymous reviewersmotivated me to forge ahead in pursuit of greater academic rigour. I also appreciate the highly efficient editorial and administrative support throughout fromIsja Conen and Patricia Leplaeat John Benjamins.

Thebook has significantly affected my life and that of people around me. Many colleagues and friends at Singapore University of Social Sciences (formerly known as SIM University) have given me their unflagging support and encouragement in various ways. I owe more than I can say to my family for the sacrifice they have made for me and the stress they have endured over the past six years. They are my pillars of strength!