The Chinese Security Concept and its Historical Evolution

Abstract

As it grows rapidly, China apparently becomes an international focus of interest today. What occurs simultaneously is a wide uncertainty or suspicion about the country's strategic ambition for the future. The author attempts to argue for the existence of a changed PRC security concept, which seems more pragmatic and accommodative to the outside world. While streamlining a clear but gradual clue of its historical evolution, the author stresses that the Chinese concept has consistently relied on a few basic considerations. These affecting elements include the external security context, the PRC's determination of and self-identification in the world order, and its domestic economic and social stability. Although he provides rationales for the past and current concept formulation, the author also acknowledges that the Chinese security vision is not well based upon sound theories and models. The country is yet to attain a mature security doctrine in embracing modern norms and regimes.