Routledge US-China Relations in the Twenty-First Century: A Question of Trust (Routledge Studies on the Chinese Economy)

The relationship between the United States and China will be of critical importance to the world throughout the twenty-first century. In the West China’s rise is often portrayed as a threat and China seen in negative terms. This book explores the dynamics of this crucial relationship. It looks in particular at what causes an international relationship to be perceived negatively, and considers what can be done to reverse this, arguing that trust is a key factor. It goes on to discuss US and Chinese rhetoric and behaviour in three key areas – climate change, finance, and international security. The book contends that, contrary to much US rhetoric, China’s actions in these areas is often much more flexible and accommodating than the US position, and that the Chinese are much more knowledgeable about, and understanding and appreciative of, the United States than vice versa. Review "In this gripping, entertaining and deeply thought-provoking study, MichaelTai analyses the basis of trust–or lack of it–between the Chinese andAmerican leaderships. He asks whether these two great nations can bridge thechasm between their vastly different historical experiences and ideologicallegacies and build the kind of relationship that might lead us towards a cleanerplanet, a more stable and fairer financial system and ultimately take usdown the road to peace rather than set us on a path to war. It is impossible toexaggerate the importance of this book, for the fate of the world rests largelyin their hands."Tim Clissold, author of Mr China and China Rules"World peace depends on sensible power sharing based on trust between thetwo remaining superpowers. Michael Tai’s scholarly and deeply insightfulbook underlines the need to temper the distrustful impulses of each nation’spower elites driven by historical prejudices and lack of empathy. An importantcontribution to the understanding of China–US relations."Professor Hong Hai, former Dean, College of Business,Nanyang Technological University, Singapore"This is a masterful and probing study, of how trust in business global relations is precariously pivoted on personal probity and relationships. It should appeal to leaders and students in many disciplines."Professor James M. Houston, Regent College, Vancouver, Canada About the Author Michael Tai, who has had an extensive career in business and management in Asia, completed his doctorate at the University of Cambridge, UK