On US–China Relations: Problems and Prospects

This chapter examines Chinese international relations (IR) scholars’ perceptions of the US–China relations. We show that a majority of Chinese IR scholars hold a neutral view on bilateral relations, pointing out both challenges (Taiwan and South China Sea disputes) and shared interests (nuclear non-proliferation and anti-terrorism) between the two nations. We further note that Chinese IR scholars take into account both historical patterns and current domestic political cycles within the United States when assessing the current status and future trajectory of US–China relations. They are also biased toward security issues, which might explain why many were taken aback by the recent deterioration in bilateral relations after Trump launched a trade war against China in 2018.