Research Essay

The rise of China in both the Asia-Pacific region and the world in general continues to be argued among policy makers and academics, particularly in terms of security and stability. China’s influence in the Asia-Pacific region appears to be developing rapidly. Some analysts are apprehensive that China’s rise could see it replace the United States as the dominant power in the region and pose a major threat to stability. Others believe China’s rise will not replace the United States as the central power in the region, but simply became part of the current order. Firstly, this paper will discuss the economy and military power of China stating it is unequal to the United States and will remain so for many more years to come. Secondly, China’s independence with partners within their region will see them reluctant to start any conflicts with them because of the effect that it will have on their domestic economy. Lastly, China’s intentions for a peaceful development are well documented and cannot be seen as a threat to stability within the Asia-pacific region. This essay will argue that the rise of China will not be a threat to Australia’s security.

China is playing an increasingly more important and influential role in the global economy. China has recently become the second largest economy in the world, yet China remains a developing country. There is a general misperception that China’s economy is catching up to the United States. This stems from a number of analytical errors the most common being comparing the US-China power balance from statistics that compare China only to its previous self. For example, there have been studies stating the growth rates of China’s per capita income, technology industry value and military expenditure are exceeding those of the United States concluding China is catching up (Beckley 2011, 44). However, focusing on growth rates conceals China’s decline comparative to the United States in these categories. Beckley (2011, 44) argues,