The Power and Politics of Recognition: Status in China’s Foreign Relations

Abstract

The concept of status, generally considered under the purview of sociology, has great analytical potential in explaining major power motivations in the post—Cold War era. It is particularly apt to account for the rise of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) (Deng 2008). But to do that, one has to adapt the concept to international relations where power, violence, and even war still figure in decision-makingsalbeit less prominently than in the past. One also needs to reconsider it in light of the distinctive dynamics behind the way China relates to the world—although the Chinese case shows significant similarities with the strategic patterns of other emerging powers.

I would like to thank the editors for most useful comments and suggestions on earlier drafts.