摘要
American Studies, as a dynamic field of research throughout the world, has its fair share of ebb and flow. Its emergence in the US indicates the national appeal of America, and its emergence across the world corresponds to the expansion of the USA＇s influence and power. Vertically, it is experiencing a process of subdivision; while horizontally, it has undergone changes and variations. American Studies in the US is characterized by its focus on American culture and society. American Studies in China is more of an exoscopic type of research concerning ＂the Study of America,＂ which is the research on another pohtical entity. In addition to language and economic factors, the combination of nativism and national interests determine the variation of American Studies across the globe. This article also retraces the path of development of American Studies in China since 1979, and attempts to sum up the characteristics and the weaknesses in American Studies dealt with in China.
