As the rest of the world worries about what a future might look like under Chinese supremacy; Edward Luttwak worries about China’s own future prospects. Applying the logic of strategy for which he is well known; Luttwak argues that the most populous nation on Earth—and its second largest economy—may be headed for a fall.For any country whose rising strength cannot go unnoticed; the universal logic of strategy allows only military or economic growth. But China is pursuing both goals simultaneously. Its military buildup and assertive foreign policy have already stirred up resistance among its neighbors; just three of whom—India; Japan; and Vietnam—together exceed China in population and wealth. Unless China’s leaders check their own ambitions; a host of countries; which are already forming tacit military coalitions; will start to impose economic restrictions as well.Chinese leaders will find it difficult to choose between pursuing economic prosperity and increasing China’s military strength. Such a change would be hard to explain to public opinion. Moreover; Chinese leaders would have to end their reliance on ancient strategic texts such as Sun Tzu’s Art of War. While these guides might have helped in diplomatic and military conflicts within China itself; their tactics—such as deliberately provoking crises to force negotiations—turned China’s neighbors into foes. To avoid arousing the world’s enmity further; Luttwak advises; Chinese leaders would be wise to pursue a more sustainable course of economic growth combined with increasing military and diplomatic restraint.
#429331 in Books Belknap Press 2010-10-30Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.18 x .88 x 6.14l; 1.06 #File Name: 0674057341336 pagesBelknap Press
Review
19 of 19 people found the following review helpful. Very good coverage of the subjectBy landi3337This is a very good book covering this time period. It's broken down in to sections (religion; law; literature; etc.) to make it easy to follow; or easy to research just a particular topic. It's well written and easy to read and even enjoyable; which is a tough feat for a history book.Some minor critiques: I wish the author or publisher had included the Chinese characters next to the pinyin words; so those familiar with the written language could better understand. Also; I think it should have started out with a long chapter giving a linear; chronological history of the Qin and Han periods. That would have made it better to understand some of the subsequent chapters. Reading this from front to back; you still get a good sense of the chronology; but starting out with that would have helped.I'm looking forward to subsequent books in this series; plus I understand the author is also working on a different project discussing pre-imperial China. That will be nice.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A different perspective on Chinese history!By PeimathEasy to read!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Excellent introduction to Early Chinese historyBy Art S.Excellent introduction to Early Chinese history. Next volume is also worth owning. There are a few spots were I felt the exposition of the era or personage involved was not as clear as it could be. Still; excellent place to start if you know nothing about Chinese history.
