Rush Doshi, a C.V. Starr Senior Fellow for Asia Studies and director of the China Strategy Initiative, shares insights on U.S.-China geopolitical dynamics. He delves into the Thucydides Trap, discussing the potential for conflict as China ascends. Doshi analyzes China's perception of U.S. power and its grand strategy to expand influence. He emphasizes the importance of diplomatic engagement between Biden and Xi, while also addressing skepticism towards alliances in American politics. A thought-provoking exploration of navigating complex international relations!
The U.S.-China rivalry is driven by structural tensions and ideological differences, requiring careful diplomacy to avoid conflict.
China's grand strategy seeks to reshape the international order, demanding that the U.S. effectively manage its competitive strategies.
Deep dives
The Role of Educators in Global Literacy
High school and college faculty significantly contribute to their students' global literacy, which is crucial for national security and prosperity. Educators are seen as frontline defenders of democracy, especially as students return to school. To support these faculty members, resources like videos, simulations, readings, and class activities have been developed, all of which are easily accessible and free. Such resources enable teachers to effectively prepare students for understanding global dynamics.
America's Geopolitical Rivalry with China
The current rivalry between the United States and China is characterized by structural tensions stemming from China's growing power relative to the U.S. This rivalry includes significant ideological differences, as both nations perceive the world differently. The conversation indicates that the competition is multifaceted, covering military, economic, technological, and political domains, with the assertion that China aims to displace the U.S. as the world's leading power. The ongoing dynamics suggest that finding a way to coexist is necessary, as both nations will have to navigate this intense competition for the foreseeable future.
Understanding the Thucydides Trap
The concept of the Thucydides Trap frames the historical pattern of conflict between a rising power and an established one, with the current U.S.-China tension being a modern example. While this framework helps explain underlying forces in their relationship, it's viewed more as an indicator of structural pressures rather than an inevitable conflict scenario. The discussion acknowledges the existence of real disagreements on various issues, but emphasizes that understanding each nation's intentions is key to navigating these tensions. This nuanced perspective allows for a better grasp of the complexities surrounding U.S.-China relations.
China's Global Strategy and American Interests
China's grand strategy involves the pursuit of a more prominent global role while simultaneously seeking to reshape the international order, which often clashes with U.S. interests. The strategy is characterized by three phases: initial concealment of capabilities, followed by a proactive build-up of its influence, leading to a current phase of seeking global presence. As China aims for leadership in critical technological sectors and geopolitical dominance, the U.S. must focus on its own competitive strategies while managing inherent conflicts. The discussion implies that both nations must address their own interests without triggering a broader confrontation, hinting at the importance of careful diplomacy to maintain stability.
Rush Doshi, C.V. Starr Senior Fellow for Asia Studies and director of the China Strategy Initiative, sits down with James M. Lindsay to discuss how America should navigate its geopolitical rivalry with China.