Rebuilding the forbidden city - the search for contemporary chinese international relations theory.

Abstract

The failure of contemporary mainstream International Relations theory to achieve universality in explaining global events, particularly in areas outside of Europe has prompted the need to search for alternative sources of International Relations theory which is of non-western origins. China, with its long and rich history, coupled with various ongoing complex geopolitical issues with its neighbors, is seen as a major source in the search for non-western International Relations theory. However, many scholars have argued that non-western International Relations theory are hard to locate, diverse, and in many instances, simply absent. As such, Chinese International Relations theory faces the same problem. This paper contests the notion that there exists no Chinese International Relations theory within China; instead proposing that there is a school of Chinese International Relations theory based on the concepts of "peaceful rise" and "harmonious world". There is a conscious effort by Chinese scholars and leaders to create an International Relations theory that is of Chinese characteristics; one that seeks to redefine the international world order based on the Chinese experience and traditional Chinese (political) tradition/culture.