Racing toward Tragedy? China's Rise, Military Competition in the Asia Pacific, and the Security Dilemma

Summary

Claims that the Asia Pacific is ripe for military competition and conflict are overstated. China's surging economy and military spending have contributed to security dilemmas in the region, as have specific conflicts of interest—for instance, over territory. Measures are available, however, to mitigate the action-reaction dynamics of mutual fear, suspicion, and insecurity.