Michael Brenes argues against adopting a great-power competition approach toward China, which he believes echoes the Cold War mentality. He emphasizes that such rivalry neglects historical consequences and exacerbates domestic issues, such as xenophobia and inequality. Instead, he advocates for diplomatic engagement to address shared global challenges, particularly climate change.

The emergence of China as a major global power has significantly influenced U.S. foreign policy, with leaders from both major political parties labeling it a perilous threat to American democracy and interests worldwide. This has prompted a comprehensive rivalry approach akin to that of the Cold War with the Soviet Union, a stance that Michael Brenes, co-director of the Brady-Johnson Program at Yale, criticizes as detrimental to U.S. interests.

In his book, “The Rivalry Peril: How Great-Power Competition Threatens Peace and Weakens Democracy,” Brenes advocates for a more diplomatic engagement with China to lower tensions and allow for collaboration on global issues such as climate change. He and co-author Van Jackson argue that viewing U.S.-China relations through a Cold War lens ignores the violent historical consequences of such rivalries.

Brenes contends that the notion of a renewed Cold War between the U.S. and China misunderstands past dynamics, promoting dangerous assumptions about existential threats. He points out that this approach has not generated the expected positive outcomes for democracy or economic rejuvenation, suggesting that such competition is leading to a concerning trajectory.

The Cold War not only resulted in the fall of communism but also incited significant violence worldwide through proxy wars and regime changes that destabilized various nations. Regions like Iran, where U.S. intervention had long-lasting negative effects, exemplify the potential repercussions of current U.S. strategies regarding China.

Brenes asserts that the rivalry fosters negative sentiments, especially xenophobia, which undermines American democracy at home. The political climate has become increasingly divisive, culminating in hate crimes against Asian individuals, fueled by anti-China rhetoric during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

He emphasizes that while proponents of competition believe it drives innovation, this may not be as efficacious as suggested. The competition does not serve as a broad-based economic stimulus, thus perpetuating inequality and failing to foster widespread prosperity.

Brenes suggests that the risks of undermining national cohesion and provoking distrust against dissenting political views arise from heightened hostility towards China. Historical parallels with McCarthyism demonstrate how such an atmosphere stifles discourse on critical issues, including climate change.

To improve U.S.-China relations, Brenes recognizes threats posed by China but believes in the importance of strategic cooperation, particularly regarding climate change, as both nations share common global challenges that cannot be solved in isolation. Addressing such issues requires a fundamental shift from viewing international relations through a competitive lens to a more collaborative approach.

In conclusion, Michael Brenes advocates for a reassessment of U.S. strategy regarding China, moving away from a Cold War mentality that fosters confrontation and distrust. He posits that greater diplomacy and cooperation can not only benefit U.S. interests but also address global challenges effectively. By prioritizing collaboration over rivalry, the U.S. may enhance democracy, improve national cohesion, and contribute to global stability.

Original Source: news.yale.edu

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