Washington Report, 2010-4

Abstract

Are the United States and China on a collision course? President Obama entered office committed to engaging China in dialogue aimed at resolving economic and diplomatic challenges in a reasonably amicable manner. Beijing's more assertive behavior in Asia and the sometimes harsh, anti-American rhetoric emanating from the certain quarters suggest that the Chinese political elite have a very different view of what is best the country and how relations with Washington should be managed. Prof. David M. Lampton of Johns Hopkins University explores the political, economic, and historical factors that more recently have escalated tensions in bilateral relations and caused growing concern among China's Asian neighbors. The full interview also is available.