Balance of Power vs. Balance of Threat: The Case of China and Pakistan
Abstract
The balance of threat suggests that States form Alliances to prevent stronger powers from dominating them and to protect themselves from States or Coalitions whose superior resources pose a threat to National Independence. Georgraphic proximity, offensive power, and aggressive intentions affect the threat level. During the Cold War, the SINO-PAK balance of threat was forged to counter the perception of Soviet and Indian Hegemony in the region. China's problems with India were exacerbated by a precarious relationship with the Soviet Union. China embarked on an enduring strategic relationship with Pakistan. Cooperation with Pakistan did effectively balance the Indian Threat and prevented India from focusing on China. China used the elements of it's own national power - political, economic, military power and nuclear cooperation to influence Pakistan. This case study supports the balance of threat theory. It illustrates that the issue that drives China and Pakistan together is not India's Preponderance of power, but that by India possessing this power, coupled with it's geographic proximity, Offensive Power and Aggressive Intentions, it poses a real threat.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA401282
Entities
People
- Michael P. Watson
Organizations
- Marine Corps University