Where Does Japan Fit In?

Abstract

To maintain its stability, an international system must be able to absorb and respond to rapidly changing economic and military power. The sudden emergence of a new and powerful national actor triggers a process of economic and political displacement that profoundly affects the interests and status of other nations — sometimes beneficially, but more frequently detrimentally. Some states will obviously gain as a rising power stakes out its position in the game of nations; for example, at least in the medium term, the emergence of a strong and unified China gave an advantage to the United States in its confrontation with the Soviet Union. However, as power and status are by definition relative, some formerly dominant and secure states will necessarily decline and their interests will be adversely affected. Thus, the existence of an independent, industrialised China has greatly undermined the security of the Soviet Union and transformed the international politics of East Asia.