RAND Policy Forum

China Rising? Asia, America, and the Transformation of Geopolitics

Program

China has transformed in dramatic ways over the past 25 years and wields increasing influence on the global stage. With a rapidly growing economy, new political leaders, and more-stable relations with its Asian neighbors, China is on the rise. But response, both in the United States and the rest of Asia, has been cautious. What are the myths and realities of China's impact on the changing geopolitical landscape? What are the challenges and opportunities for the United States?

In his new book, Asia, America, and the Transformation of Geopolitics (Cambridge University Press, 2007), economist and Asia expert William H. Overholt contends that American security and prosperity now depend on Asia. Drawing on decades of political and business experience in Asia, Overholt argues that U.S. foreign policy toward China is based on outmoded Cold War attitudes, and that a change in course is needed to maximize global economic opportunities and promote ongoing peace in the region. Covering a range of topics from Asian economic development and implications for the U.S. economy to resolution of Taiwan's status and China's human rights policy, Overholt challenges conventional wisdom to offer an integrative view of the many complex policy challenges associated with China's ascent in world affairs.

Featured Speakers

• William H. Overholt, Director, RAND Center for Asia Pacific Policy
• Donald Tang, Vice Chairman, Bear Stearns & Co., Inc.; Chairman, Asia Society Southern California; Trustee, RAND Corporation

About RAND

RAND is a nonprofit organization that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. As the nation's first “think tank,” RAND has been expanding the boundaries of human knowledge for 60 years and continually seeks nonpartisan solutions to the most pressing challenges of our day. Initially, RAND focused on issues of national security; today, RAND also uses its intellectual reserves to make a difference in health, education, business, law, and science. No other institution tackles tough policy problems across so broad a spectrum.

About the RAND Center for Asia Pacific Policy

The RAND Center for Asia Pacific Policy provides expertise on critical issues facing Asia and US-Asia relations that is second to none. Decisionmakers and opinion leaders in the United States, Asia and throughout the world rely on our analysts for nonpartisan, objective advice on Asia's greatest challenges.

Gift from Cyrus Chung Ying Tang Foundation Will Help Establish China Study Institute — Sep. 19, 2007

The Cyrus Chung Ying Tang Foundation has donated $2 million to the RAND Corporation to establish the Tang Institute for U.S.-China Relations. The institute will work to improve policy discussions that shape relations between the U.S. and China on issues such as currency, labor and trade, and more.

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What Are the Impacts of Resolving Taiwan's Status? — Jul. 23, 2007

Depending on how Taiwan's status is resolved, U.S.-China relations could range from friendly cooperation to cold war. As China's military capabilities grow, it will be increasingly important for the US. to both prevent an attempt at violent reunification and maintain the capability to defeat it.

Full DocumentResearch Brief

Unofficial Diplomacy Efforts Can Have a Positive Effect Over Long Term — Sep. 19, 2007

Unofficial diplomatic discussions can play a significant role in shaping attitudes in the Middle East and Asia, but are best used as a long-term strategy without expectations for dramatic policy shifts.

Full DocumentNews Release

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