Class 21: The International Relations Theory of East Asia

Question 1

What are the 3 theories of the IR of East Asia?

Answer 1

1). Structural
2). Institutional
3). Historical memory

Question 2

What are the components of the structural theory of East Asia IR?

Answer 2

1.little evidence of balancing from East Asian states
2. Power transition wars tend not to occur in east Asia
3. civilizational distinction of west vs east

Question 3

3 reasons China may not be balancing or balanced against?

Answer 3

1). benign hegemony of China
2). unclear outcome of China’s power when impacted by environmental changes?
3). soft balancing starting to occur from China

Question 4

What are the 3 East Asian behavioral practice?

Answer 4

1). engagement
2). hedging
3). insurance

Question 5

Three ways hiearachy combats anarchy?

Answer 5

1). tribute system
2). mandala system
3). patron-client relations

Question 6

What is the tribute system

Answer 6

Chinese exchange process for diplomatic recognition or political endorsement.

Question 7

What is the Mandala system?

Answer 7

Southeast Asian loose hierarchy system built around a political system.

Question 8

What are patron-client relations?

Answer 8

Small East Asian states tend to be compliant for domestic autonomy.

Question 9

What are the institutional assumptions?

Answer 9

1. east asian institutions are endogenous
2. lack enforcement mechanisms
3. small secretariats
4. east asia more focused on internal threats
5. greater non-interference in domestic affairs from east asia

Question 10

Defense Alliances:
Why did the US lead multilateral alliances in North America, but US security in East Asia was enforced through bilateral treaties?

Answer 10

1. East Asian states were revisionist
2. US doesn’t see east Asia as competent
3. East Asiant states avoid great power conflict

Question 11

How do memories of Japanese invasion and colonialism aggravate foreign relations?

Answer 11

1. narratives of victimhood
2. sensitivity to challenge of domestic sovereignty
3. sensitivity to territorial concessions

Question 12

How do authoritarian leaders see audience costs?

Answer 12

1. during selection with competition, leaders are sensitive to the public opinion
2. when legitimacy is sensitive they will care about public opinion
3. historical memory can be used to justify foreign policy