Description:
Co-authored by four high-profile International Relations scholars, this book investigates the implications of the global ascent of China on cross-Strait relations and the identity of Taiwan as a democratic state.
Examining an array of factors that affect identity formation, the authors consider the influence of the rapid military and economic rise of China on Taiwan's identity. Their assessment offers valuable insights into which policies have the best chance of resulting in peaceful relations and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and builds a new theory of identity at elite and mass levels. It also possesses implications for the United States-led world order and today's most critical great power competition.
Brief description: Patrick James is the Dornsife Dean's Professor of the School of International Relations, University of Southern California. He has published 30 books and 150 articles and chapters. He served as President of the International Studies Association for 2018-19.
Review Quotes:
"This is a timely and important book addressing the political identity of Taiwan's people. It is especially germane to rising tension across the Taiwan Strait in a time of deteriorating Sino-American relations." Steve Chan, University of Colorado, Boulder
"Contemporary students of China and historians alike should read this well-written book." Peter Kien-hong Yu, National University of Singapore
"This detailed analysis unpacks the main factors that play into cross-Strait tensions between China and Taiwan, and provides a base from which to develop policy prescriptions intended to manage the conflict and maintain peace in a tense region of the world. A tour de force and a must-read." Jeannette Money, University of California, Davis