Accommodating Rising Powers

de T. V. Paul

As the world enters the third decade of the twenty-first century, far-reaching changes are likely to occur. China, Russia, India, and Brazil, and perhaps others, are likely to emerge as contenders for global leadership roles. War as a system-changing mechanism is unimaginable, given that it would escalate into nuclear conflict and the destruction of the planet. It is therefore essential that policymakers in established as well as rising states devise strategies to allow transitions without resorting to war, but dominant theories of International Relations contend that major changes in the system are generally possible only through violent conflict. This volume asks whether peaceful accommodation of rising powers is possible in the changed international context, especially against the backdrop of intensified globalization. With the aid of historic cases, it argues that peaceful change is possible through effective long-term strategies on the part of both status quo and rising powers. -- Provided by publisher. This volume takes on an important and timely topic: how should the world manage interstate power shifts in the interest of keeping peace and stability? The contributing authors study both past and current encounters between established and rising powers. They offer valuable insights for scholars and officials alike.' Steve Chan, College Professor of Distinction, University of Colorado, Boulder -- Provided by publisher.