The Suzerain-Vassal System as East Asian Security System and Structure: Its Origin, Essence, Evolution and Features

2022 ◽  
pp. 47-79
Asian Survey ◽  
1994 ◽  
Vol 34 (12) ◽  
pp. 1047-1063 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sheldon W. Simon

Author(s):  
Randall L. Schweller

This chapter works within the neoclassical realist tradition to examine the role of nationalism in foreign policymaking and the implication for the international politics of East Asia. Whereas the rise of China is an important structural factor necessarily affecting states' security policies throughout East Asia, China's rise does not determine these states' security policies. Rather, domestic politics ultimately determines how a state responds to changing security circumstances. In particular, nationalism can drive states to adopt more belligerent policies than warranted by their strategic environment, thus contributing to heightened bilateral conflicts and regional tension. The chapter argues that, in contemporary East Asia, rising China sets the context of policymaking, but domestic politics has been the primary factor shaping policy.


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