Description:
This insightful book explores evolving perceptions of China, contrasting dominant Western narratives with Chinese perspectives. Highlighting the complexities of these discourses, the book critiques three prevailing views of China's rise: the return of geopolitics, challenges to liberal order and prospects for collaborative governance.
Bridging China Studies, International Relations and Global Political Economy, the book examines the politics of knowledge production to present a nuanced understanding of China. It argues for viewing China as a distinctive yet interconnected global power whose development reflects a dialectical relationship with existing global systems. It is essential reading for understanding China's role in today's shifting global political landscape.
Brief description: Tim Summers is an Assistant Professor at the Centre for China Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Review Quotes:
'Tim Summers' Global China is a thoughtful and timely analysis that moves beyond simplistic East vs. West dichotomies to explore how China's rise is understood - and misunderstood - through competing narratives. Drawing from China Studies, International Relations, and critical geopolitics, Summers offers a nuanced, interdisciplinary critique of dominant framings, from 'geopolitical threat' to 'collaborative governance.' Grounded in both rigorous scholarship and lived experience in Hong Kong and mainland China, the book challenges assumptions on all sides. A must-read for anyone seeking to better grasp the complex and contested realities of China's global role in the 21st century.' Christine Loh, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology