This paper will probe at the causes and likely consequences of the ongoing Southeast Asian crisis that began in the second quarter of 1997. Though the situation is still unfolding-and surely will continue to for many years to come-it can confidently be said that this is the worst economic crisis the world has experienced since the Great Depression of the 1930s. The evidence presented in this paper will fortify arguments through a synthesis of the available research in the area, along with some independent conjecture where appropriate. As a crisis 'in progress', it is both unwise and impossible to provide any definitive conclusions. There are evident themes and concrete examples, nevertheless, that do help shed light on this very perplexing dilemma. 22 pgs. 42 f/c. 18b.