China's Realist Dilemma: The Pursuit of International Prestige
Abstract
Prestige drove China in 2017 to distance itself from North Korea and the Treaty of Friendship signed by both countries. This paper describes Chinas actions since 2003 through a contrast of Kenneth Waltzs and Robert Gilpins theories on realism. Chinas economic growth provides opportunities to make minor changes in the international structure. China created the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to increase its prestige and to control an international organization funding projects in other nations. However, China has not increased its total military personnel numbers, nor its military spending relative to its Gross Domestic Product. Finally, China seeks modernization of their military while exporting military technology. Prestige, not power, best explains Chinas actions since 2003.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1079461
Entities
People
- Terrance Allen
Organizations
- Air University