Power Transition and War: The International System, States and the Rise of China
Author: Tang JianSilver Editor Source: Contemporary Asia Pacific StudiesTime :2014-09-26 15:15:00
Abstract: Power transition theory provides an important means for explaining great power conflict and war, yet it fails to explain precisely what states desire to obtain from the international system (i.e.state objectives), and the reasons why realization of these objectives result in the outbreak of war.As such, there are contradictions between the logic of the theory and the empirical behaviors of states.Differences in state modalities determine gaps and conflicts between state objectives and behaviors, and this in turn is what drives the close relationship between power transition and war.State modalities, the international structure and interaction between the two determine whether war will break out.It is argued in the article that since China embarked on its reform and opening the chance of conflict occurring between the U.S.and China as a result of China’s power transition is low.While so, China and the U.S.need to pay attention to various flaws in the international system, as well as its continuous evolution.They must also consider many other variables that might negatively impact bilateral relations, including low levels of strategic trusts, ideology, numerous indirect factors.