In her new book, “The United States, China, and the Competition for Control,” Melanie Sisson presents a thought-provoking analysis of the complex dynamics between the United States and China, challenging prevailing assumptions about their intentions and actions in the global arena.
Sisson’s work stands out as she calls for a reevaluation of the conventional wisdom that dominates U.S.-China relations. Many analysts operate under the belief that China is intent on overthrowing the post-World War II international order, seeking to replace the United States as the sole global leader through military expansion. However, Sisson argues that this narrative oversimplifies the reality of China’s engagement with the international system.
Instead of viewing China’s actions as inherently disruptive, Sisson categorizes its behavior as “deviance within acceptable levels.” According to her, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has historically engaged with the postwar international order in a manner that is neither entirely defiant nor fully compliant. By emphasizing that China has benefitted from, and partially invested in, the postwar structures, Sisson suggests that American policymakers should work to include China in existing international institutions and focus on negotiating rules that govern the global order.
Critically, Sisson warns U.S. leaders against selectively using Chinese leaders’ statements to reinforce existing biases. She posits that much of the assertive rhetoric from Chinese officials serves domestic purposes, aiming to bolster nationalism rather than direct foreign policy ambitions.
Facing the intricacies of globalization and the challenges presented by China, Sisson outlines two potential paths for the United States: either distance itself from the international order it created or recommit to it, adjusting how benefits and responsibilities are shared. Yet, she notes a troubling trend—America appears to be retreating from the postwar framework, a move fueled by the belief that it has been unfairly treated under multilateral agreements. This withdrawal not only undermines established alliances but also destabilizes the global order, which has enjoyed decades of peace and progress since WWII.
Sisson points out that the U.S. possesses significant tools, including its established international infrastructure and strong alliances, to influence China’s behavior positively. However, she emphasizes that recent shifts in U.S. foreign policy, particularly a move toward isolation and protectionism, threaten these pillars of influence.
Ryan Hass reinforces Sisson’s viewpoint, underscoring her challenge to the prevailing assumptions held by the U.S.-China analytical community. He supports her assertion that China’s benefits from the international order have been disproportionate and argues for a more nuanced understanding of China’s ambitions, which he describes as less about outright dominance and more about reinforcing its status in the global hierarchy.
Hass echoes Sisson’s caution against accepting curated quotes from Chinese officials as definitive proof of aggressive intent. Instead of interpreting China’s behavior as an outright threat to U.S. primacy, he suggests that the aim is often defensive and tied to historical grievances regarding territorial claims and national pride.
Jennifer Kavanagh adds another layer to the discussion by highlighting the inversion of roles where China, amid U.S. tariffs and actions under President Donald Trump, is positioned as a stabilizing force against U.S. unpredictability. Sisson’s book articulates that both the United States and China have at times undermined the international order, and it challenges the binary narrative that depicts China solely as a disruptor.
Kavanagh notes three significant contributions from Sisson’s analysis: the fluidity of U.S. and Chinese compliance with global norms, the coexistence of Chinese and U.S.-led institutions, and the focus on avoiding conflict between nuclear powers. These elements are pivotal for navigating a complex geopolitical landscape.
Michael E. O’Hanlon appreciates Sisson’s balanced approach, acknowledging that while he is critical of China’s recent behavior, her work serves as an essential counter-narrative to the more aggressive standpoint prevalent in U.S. policy discussions. He emphasizes that the relationship with China must prioritize avoiding conflict, echoing themes present during historical crises.
Bruce Jones recognizes Sisson’s incisive examination of U.S. foreign policy, arguing that while often portrayed as committed to international rules, the reality reveals a complicated history marked by exceptions. He critiques the notion that American policy has strictly defended a rules-based world order, allowing for a broad discussion about the motivations behind historical American actions in the global arena.
Mireya Solís commends Sisson’s empirical rigor and her challenge to the dominant narrative surrounding U.S.-China rivalry. She argues that Sisson’s accounting of the postwar order prioritizes stability over a simplistic pursuit of prosperity or rights. Yet, Solís also notes that a deeper exploration of the factors leading to current tensions in the international economic system is essential for understanding the hurdles ahead.
Finally, Thomas Wright assesses Sisson’s work with a critical lens, arguing that she underestimates the formidable challenge posed by China. He highlights concerns surrounding Taiwan and continental stability, suggesting that Sisson’s focus on a cooperative future could inadvertently downplay necessary preparations against aggressive moves by China. Wright emphasizes that the need for vigilance in U.S.-China relations should remain paramount.
In conclusion, Melanie Sisson’s comprehensive examination of U.S.-China relations provides a platform for understanding the complexities of global order and the intricacies of both nations’ behaviors within it. Her work encourages a departure from binary narratives and toward a more nuanced diplomatic engagement focused on stability and coexistence in an increasingly multipolar world.
image source from：brookings
