In eight papers German social scientists explore aspects of the significance of women in Asia's mythologies and in modern politics. The discussions of the female political power in terms of dynasties, religion and sacrificial roles include: female leadership in past and present Islamic societies; female power in traditional religion and in the state; dynastic leadership patterns; and the moral capital element. Reference is made mainly to recent history in the Indian sub-continent, Burma, Indonesia, Korea, and Malaysia. With bibliography and index. Two papers are in German.