Chinese-Australian Relations

Analyzing the Chinese-Australian relations through a realist and a liberal perspective provides insight on the underlying tensions and possible future outcomes of the relationship between these two nations. First let us look at the relations through a realist lens. Realists put the emphasis on the state as a main actor. When considering this the realist would perhaps say that the Australia-China relationship is primarily derived from individual state actions as opposed to outside influence. China needed resources and Australia needed capital. It was Australia’s individual decision to begin trading relations with China and vice versa. It can also be noted, however, that Australia desires to take the relationship no further than a simple trading one as can be inferred from the sentence “Rudd, while embracing Chinese trade, has moved to balance relations with Beijing by bolstering military and diplomatic ties with Australia's longtime superpower ally, the United States.” This also points to the realist perspective that human nature has a darker side and that we should be wary of those we “deal” with. Realists would also point out China’s interest in Australia is derived from the desire for more power. The Chinese “essentially want to maximize their ability to get what they want” per realist perspective. Resources are but one way in which China seeks to utilize the Australians. This perspective would most likely assert that the Chinese would seek to exert their power over their new grip on the economy of the Australians. As it is they are already Australia’s number one trading partner, have pumped $40 billion into Australia’s economy in just the past six months, and purchase more than 300 million tons of ore per year and vast quantiti...

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...human nature and it is best to be prepared for such outcomes that the dark side of human nature usually entails.

Both the realist and liberal perspective hold excellent arguments as to what the course of action should be in terms of the Australian relationship with China. Overall the realist perspective holds more appeal for me because of its logic and the security it provides Australia. My example of a liberal method in order to contain Chinese influence offers an interesting alternative. I do not think, however, that it would be enough to limit Chinese influence on account of its weakness of authority. Australia needs to implement methods that show it is in control of its nation rather than China. This requires the baring of its teeth (building up of its military and foreign ties) and the avoidance of engaging in foreign policy with China beyond matters of trade.