International Relations Theory in China
In: Global society: journal of interdisciplinary international relations, Volume 15, Issue 3, p. 251-276
ISSN: 1360-0826
The concept of international relations (IR) theory in the People's Republic of China differs drastically from that of the West. The construction of the IR discipline & theory, which began in response to the call of the CCP Central Committee leadership in the Cold War era, is a relatively new development in China, although there is universal agreement among scholars that ancient China has tangibly influenced present-day international attitudes toward China's leaders & its foreign policy. It is also evident that IR theory construction in China is, today, undergoing drastic reform. Many theorists are arguing for a distinct IR theory that conforms to "Chinese characteristics." Yet, because of China's historical lack of IR theory, it is still necessary for Chinese scholars to model their own theories after those of the West. As China's foreign policy matures & strengthens, China's IR scholars are less likely to look to the West for direction. 2 Tables. K. A. Larsen