A New Cold War: US–China Relations in the 21st Century

US-China relations have entered a negative spiral, with a debate on whether it is a New Cold War. The book argues that the relationship has been a marriage of convenience with both cooperation and competition, but that we might be close to the end of it. The US and China are locked in a new type of cold war where mechanisms of deterrence and competition differ from those of the Cold War, making the return of bloc politics possible.

Format: Hardback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The last decade or so has witnessed a significant deterioration in US-China relations, leading to a growing debate on whether this represents a new Cold War. This book challenges the notion of cold wars and Cold War, highlighting the complex and evolving nature of the US-China relationship. It argues that the relationship has been characterized by both cooperation and competition, with mechanisms of deterrence and competition differing from those of the Cold War. This has led to the possibility of a return to bloc politics.

The book explores the historical roots of the US-China relationship, tracing its evolution from the Cold War era to the present day. It highlights the various factors that have contributed to the current state of affairs, including economic competition, geopolitical tensions, and ideological differences. The authors argue that the US-China relationship is unique in that it is characterized by a high level of interdependence, with both countries heavily reliant on each other for economic growth and security.

However, the authors also point out that the relationship has become increasingly strained in recent years, with both sides engaging in a series of confrontations and disputes. These include trade wars, technology disputes, and territorial claims in the South China Sea. The authors argue that these conflicts are driven by a combination of economic nationalism, geopolitical rivalry, and ideological differences.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of deterrence and competition in the US-China relationship. The authors argue that the US and China have developed different mechanisms of deterrence and competition, which have led to a more stable and peaceful relationship. However, they also point out that these mechanisms are becoming increasingly ineffective in the face of the growing economic and military power of China.

The book also explores the potential for a return to bloc politics in the US-China relationship. The authors argue that the current state of affairs is unsustainable and that a return to bloc politics is necessary to address the various challenges facing the relationship. They suggest that this could involve the formation of a new international order that is more inclusive and equitable, with the US and China playing a more significant role in global governance.

However, the authors also acknowledge that a return to bloc politics is not without its challenges. They point out that the formation of a new international order would require significant cooperation and compromise from both the US and China, and that there are many potential obstacles to achieving this goal.

In conclusion, the US-China relationship has entered a negative spiral in recent years, with a growing debate on whether this represents a new Cold War. This book challenges the notion of cold wars and Cold War, highlighting the complex and evolving nature of the relationship. It argues that the relationship has been characterized by both cooperation and competition, with mechanisms of deterrence and competition differing from those of the Cold War. The book also explores the potential for a return to bloc politics in the US-China relationship, but acknowledges that this is not without its challenges.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529227543