How does IR theory relate to our topic?

Liberalism

            The Chinese sphere of influence could have arguably stabilized the region, replacing the importance of military dominance with an economic focus.  The major nations in this area have not fought each other since the already mentions confrontations of the Cold War and have become interdependent on China’s economy.  For the United States, while some of their political ideals are contradicted by cooperating with the People’s Republic of China, doing so brings economic benefits to America. 

Realism

            From a traditional realist’s point of view, if communist regimes are threatening democracies and capitalism in East Asia, the United States (presumably a hegemon), should use its force to stabilize the region, making it safer for nations like Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea.  However, the United States’ reluctance to involve itself in East Asia shows that China’s growing economic power is quickly deteriorating America’s position as a hegemon.  Realists would suggest that there is a slow shift in the world’s balance of power, changing the international structure from a unipolar system to a bipolar one. 

Radicalism

            The People’s Republic of China is self-identified as a communist nation.  However, they are increasingly moving towards a more capitalistic economy.  This is reminiscent of the Cold War; however, unlike the USSR before it, China has not fallen victim to the inherent economic contradictions that communism poses, allowing it to thrive in a capitalistic community.  This hybrid-communist political system and capitalistic economy has taken radical ideas and further evolved them. 

     Respectfully,

             Comrade Myers and Comrade Spellissy