On Humans
Is War Inevitable? Lessons from East Asia ~ David C. Kang
Nov 15, 2024
David C. Kang, a USC professor and co-author of "Beyond Power Transitions," explores the complexities of war and peace in East Asia, highlighting how historical interactions among China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam challenge Eurocentric theories of international relations. He argues that many conflicts stem from internal dynamics rather than external aggression. Kang also critiques the notion of the 'Thucydides trap' in U.S.-China relations and emphasizes the importance of understanding longstanding regional stability alongside the continuous influence of historical legacies in shaping modern conflicts.
51:21
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Quick takeaways
- David C. Kang argues that examining East Asian history reveals unique interactions among China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam that challenge Eurocentric war theories.
- The podcast critiques the Thucydides Trap by showcasing that historical power transitions in East Asia have not typically led to conflict.
Deep dives
Understanding War and Peace in East Asia
The discussion distinguishes between human predispositions for war and the tendencies of states to engage in conflict. This perspective emphasizes that European historical contexts heavily influence existing theories in international relations. The podcast highlights that examining East Asian history, specifically the dynamics between China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, reveals alternative understandings of peace and conflict. David Kang argues that despite the existence of wars, there are unique aspects of East Asian relationships that often foster stability over aggression.
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