The Rise of China and the Future of the West - Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts, theoretical frameworks, and projections from G. John Ikenberry's analysis of China's rise and the liberal international order.

Power Transition

A shift in the global distribution of power where a rising state acquires greater economic and military strength, creating dynamic rivalry with a declining hegemon over the rules and leadership of the international order.

Western Order

The post-World War II international system led by the United States that is open, integrated, and rule-based, underpinned by democracy, market capitalism, and multilateral institutions.

Unipolar Moment

The period following the Cold War characterized by temporary, unchallenged global dominance and hegemony by the United States.

Niall Ferguson's Thesis

The historical perspective asserting that the twentieth century marked "the descent of the West" and a historical reorientation of global power toward the East.

John Mearsheimer's Realist Prediction

The view that continued Chinese economic growth will inevitably drive an intense security competition between the United States and China with a high potential for war.

Bretton Woods System

The 1944 institutional framework that established monetary and trade rules to promote an open, multilateral global economy after World War II.

Great-Power Exceptionalism

The institutional authority and unique privileges granted to major global powers, such as permanent seat status and veto authority within the United Nations Security Council.

Doha Round

A series of World Trade Organization trade negotiations designed to extend market opportunities and trade liberalization to developing nations.

BRICS

An acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, and China, whose combined economies are projected by Goldman Sachs to exceed those of the original G-6 countries by $2050$.

Neo-Rawlsian Approach to U.S. Grand Strategy

A strategic principle based on John Rawls's "veil of ignorance," arguing that the U.S. should construct global rules and institutions that safeguard its interests regardless of its position in the global power hierarchy in future decades.

Projections of GDP, 2005–30

Economic projections at purchasing power parity indicating China's GDP will grow from $9$ trillion U.S. dollars in 2005 to $63$ trillion in 2030, surpassing the U.S. ($49$ trillion) but remaining below total OECD output ($105$ trillion).

Projections of Defense Expenditures, 2003–30

Military spending estimates showing China's defense budget rising from $60$ billion U.S. dollars in 2003 to $238$ billion in 2030, compared to U.S. spending of $808$ billion and total OECD spending of $1,398$ billion in 2030.