Government college university, Lahore

Department of Political Science

Term Paper

Topic: The rise of china and decay of western hegemony {socio-

Name: M. Raza

Roll nu: 2205-BH-PS-19

Course code: PS-

Course: Foreign policy of major Powers (USA, China and Russia)

Teacher: Professor Muhammad Manzoor Ellahi

i) Introduction

2) Rise of china and its impact on world order

3) Brief history of western hegemony and its current status

4) Rise of china and its significance

5)) China’s economic growth and global influence

6) China’s increasing global influence

7) The belt and road initiative and China’s investment in other countries

8) Decay of western hegemony

9) Impact of China’s ride on western hegemony

10) Rise of China and ideological challenges to western values and beliefs

11) China’s influence and potential for shift in global power dynamics

12)) Arguments of the different perspectives on the rise of China and decay of western
hegemony

13) Conclusion

14) References
Introduction:

In recent decades, China's rise has been a significant development in international affairs that
has far-reaching effects on the global order. China has challenged Western nations' long-
standing dominance in these areas as it has grown in power economically and politically. At the
same time, Western nations have had to deal with a variety of sociopolitical, economic, and
social problems that have made their relative decline in global power. The decline of Western
hegemony and the impact of China's rise on the international order are now more widely
discussed as a result of this. In this context, it is essential to investigate the factors that are
driving China's growth, the difficulties that Western nations face, and the potential implications
of this trend for the development of international relations in the future. The intricate dynamics
of China's rise and the shifting balance of power in the international system will be examined in
depth in this essay.

Describe China's rise and its effects on global order:

China's rapid economic growth and growing global influence in recent decades are referred to
as its rise. China has become the world's second-largest economy since adopting market-
oriented economic reforms in the late 1970s, and its GDP is expected to surpass that of the
United States in the coming years. It is the massive population of China, its abundance of
natural resources, and its highly skilled workforce all have contributed to its expansion. In
addition, China's government has pursued economic growth-promoting policies through the
establishment of special economic zones and significant infrastructure investments. 1

The rise of China has had a significant impact on the global order. China's exports and imports
account for a significant portion of global commerce, making it a major player in international
trade. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to construct
1
Christensen, T. J. (2015). The China Challenge: Shaping the Choices of a Rising Power. W. W.
Norton & Company.
infrastructure and enhance connectivity between China and other parts of the world, it has also
become a significant investor in other nations. China has significant influence over international
affairs as a result of its economic power, enabling it to influence economic policies worldwide
and other nations.

China's rise is also largely attributed to the country's growing military might. China is now one
of the world's largest military powers and has made significant investments in its capabilities.
As a result, other nations, particularly the United States, have expressed concerns regarding the
likelihood of conflict and instability in the Asia-Pacific region.2

In general, China's rise has altered the balance of power in the international system, challenging
Western nations' long-standing dominance. Countries all over the world now face both new
challenges and opportunities as they try to navigate the intricate dynamics of a changing global
order.

The Western Hegemony Era and its Present Situation:

The term "Western hegemony" refers to the dominant political, economic, and cultural power
of Western European nations, particularly the United States. The Age of Exploration in the 15th
and 16th centuries, when European powers began to establish colonies and trade networks
around the world, can be traced back to the rise of Western hegemony. This resulted in the
formation of enormous empires, such as the British, French, Spanish, and Portuguese empires,
which ruled the world for centuries. Following The Second Great War, the US arose as the
prevailing superpower, and its monetary and military could empowered it to apply huge impact
over the remainder of the world. The spread of American culture and values, the establishment
of global institutions like the United Nations and the World Bank, and the dominance of
capitalism were all hallmarks of this era, which was also referred to as the Pax Americana.
However, Western hegemony's current position is becoming increasingly uncertain. The 2008
global financial crisis and the rise of China and other emerging powers have shifted the balance

2
Ikenberry, G. J. (2018). The End of the Liberal International Order? International Affairs, 94(1),
7-23.
of power away from the West. Internal issues like political polarization, rising inequality, and
waning faith in its institutions are also present in the United States.

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the flaws of Western societies as well as
their capacity to deal with global crises, while China has demonstrated its effectiveness and
resilience. As a consequence of this, there is a growing sense that the Western hegemony era
may be coming to an end and that a brand-new multi polar world order is being established. 3

China's ascent and its importance:

One of the most significant geopolitical developments of the 21st century is China's rise. China
has emerged as a major player on the international stage with a population of more than 1.4
billion and an economy that has grown rapidly for decades.

China's rise and significance can be attributed to the following key factors:

Monetary power: After the United States, China now has the second-largest economy in the
world. Its large workforce, thriving manufacturing sector, and growing investments in
technology and innovation have all contributed to its economic expansion. As a result, China
has grown to become a significant investor in other nations and a major exporter of goods.

A military might: In addition, China has been rapidly modernizing its military, investing in
cutting-edge weapons, and expanding its presence in the South China Sea and other crucial
areas. This has raised worries among different nations in the area and prompted expanded
strains with the US.

"Soft power": China has been expanding its soft power by promoting its values and norms on
the international stage by utilizing its economic and cultural influence. This has included making
investments in projects involving international infrastructure, promoting its language and
culture through Confucius Institutes, and expanding its media presence all over the world.

3
Jacques, M. (2012). When China Rules the World: The End of the Western World and the Birth
of a New Global Order. Penguin Books.
Implications for geopolitics: Because it challenges the dominance of the United States and other
Western powers, China's rise has significant geopolitical implications. This has prompted
expanded rivalry and strains between the two nations, especially in regions like exchange,
innovation, and basic freedoms.

Governance of the world: The global power balance has also shifted as a result of China's
ascension to a greater role in global governance and its challenge to the existing international
order. This has sparked discussions regarding the future of organizations like the World Trade
Organization and the United Nations.

In conclusion, the rise of China is a significant development with significant repercussions for
global politics, culture, and economics. It raises concerns about competition and conflict,
particularly with the United States and other Western powers, despite the fact that it presents
new opportunities for partnership and cooperation.4

China's global influence and expanding economy:

China's monetary development throughout the course of recent many years has been quite
possibly of the most momentous financial change ever, and it has brought about China turning
into a significant worldwide financial power. The following are some important aspects of
China's economic expansion and global influence:

Rapid economic expansion: China's economy has grown rapidly over the past four decades, on
average by about 10% annually, ever since economic reforms were implemented in the late
1970s. Because of this, China is now the second-largest economy in the world and a major
player in international trade and investment.

Powerful manufacturing center: China's strong manufacturing sector produces a wide range of
goods, including machinery, clothing, and electronics. This has made China a critical provider of
merchandise to the remainder of the world, and has added to its financial development and
worldwide impact.
4
Johnston, A. I. (2013). Is China a Status Quo Power? International Security, 37(4), 5-56.
Belt and Street Drive: The massive infrastructure and investment program known as the Belt
and Road Initiative (BRI) of China aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through a network of
ports, railways, and other infrastructure projects. The BRI has already prompted significant
infrastructure and investment development in many nations, and it has the potential to alter
global trade and investment patterns.

Speculation and exchange: China's investment and trade with other nations have fueled its
economic expansion. China is the world's largest trading nation and a major source of foreign
investment, particularly in developing nations.

"Soft power": China has been expanding its soft power and promoting its values and norms on
the global stage by utilizing its economic and cultural influence. This entails making investments
in projects involving international infrastructure, promoting its language and culture through
Confucius Institutes, and expanding its media presence all over the world.

In conclusion, China's economic expansion has elevated it to the status of a major economic
power on the international stage. Along with its Belt and Road Initiative, it has been able to
expand its influence beyond its borders through investments and trade with other nations.
Moreover, China's developing delicate power has empowered it to advance its qualities and
standards internationally, further expanding its worldwide impact.

The effects of China's global influence on Western hegemony:

The traditional Western-led global order and the current power balance are significantly
impacted by China's growing global influence. Here are a portion of the critical effects of China's
worldwide impact on the Western authority:5

5
Kupchan, C. A. (2018). The End of the American Era: U.S. Foreign Policy and the Geopolitics of
the Twenty-first Century. Knopf.
about job losses, imbalances in trade, theft of intellectual property, and rising tensions
regarding trade and investment policies.

Competition in geopolitics: Other nations in the region are concerned about China's growing
military might and influence in strategic areas like the South China Sea, which has increased
geopolitical competition with the United States and other Western powers. Tensions over
issues like democracy, human rights, and territorial disputes have risen as a result.

"Soft power": China's growing soft power, which includes investing in international
infrastructure projects and promoting its language and culture through Confucius Institutes, has
challenged Western cultural influence and norms. Censorship, human rights, and freedom of
speech have all been topics of discussion as a result of this. Worldwide administration: The
current Western-led international order is being challenged by calls for China to play a larger
role in global governance as a result of its growing economic and political power. This has
sparked debates regarding the future of organizations like the International Monetary Fund, the
World Trade Organization, and the United Nations. Alliances in diplomacy: New diplomatic
alliances and partnerships have emerged as a result of China's growing influence, particularly in
the developing world. This has put Western-dominated alliances to the test and increased the
number of nations opposed to Western interests. In conclusion, the Western hegemony is
threatened by China's growing global influence, which threatens its economic, geopolitical, and
cultural dominance. This has increased competition and tensions, but it also presents
opportunities for partnership and cooperation in addressing global issues like economic
inequality and climate change.6

China's investments in other nations and the Belt and Road Initiative:

The massive infrastructure and investment program known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
of China aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through a network of ports, railways, and
other infrastructure projects. China has made significant investments in other nations,
particularly in developing nations, as a result of the BRI. Here are a portion of the critical parts
6
Mearsheimer, J. J. (2014). The Tragedy of Great Power Politics. W. W. Norton & Company.
of China's interests in different nations through the BRI: Construction of infrastructure: The
BRI's primary objective is to finance and construct infrastructure in participating nations. This
includes telecommunications infrastructure like fiber-optic cables, energy infrastructure like
power plants and pipelines, and transportation infrastructure like highways and railways.

Financing and investment: China has supported infrastructure projects in other nations
through loans, grants, and other forms of financing. Countries with limited access to traditional
sources of financing may find these loans appealing due to their low interest rates and flexible
repayment terms.

Growth in the economy: The BRI aims to encourage economic growth in participating nations,
particularly those in developing nations. China hopes to boost economic expansion, create jobs,
and increase trade and investment by funding and building infrastructure.

Diplomacy: The BRI investments made by China in other nations also have significant
diplomatic ramifications. China is able to build relationships and increase its influence in the
participating nations by financing and funding infrastructure projects.

Concerns: However, there are also concerns regarding China's BRI investments in other nations.
A few pundits have raised worries about obligation manageability, natural effects, and absence
of straightforwardness and responsibility in project supporting and execution. 7

In conclusion, China's investments in other nations through the Belt and Road Initiative aim to
boost economic growth, infrastructure development, and China's influence, as well as to
establish diplomatic ties. There are concerns about these investments' long-term viability and
impact, despite the fact that they have the potential to provide participating nations with
significant benefits.

Describe the decline of Western dominance:

7
Nye, J. S. (2015). Is the American Century Over? Polity Press.
The decline of Western dominance and influence in the world, particularly in the economic,
political, and cultural spheres, is referred to as the decay of Western hegemony. The decline of
Western hegemony can be attributed to a number of factors, including the following:

Problems in the economy: The Western economies, particularly those in the United States and
Europe, were significantly impacted by the 2008 financial crisis and subsequent recession. As a
result, unemployment was high, growth was sluggish, and debt and deficits rose. China and
other emerging economies, on the other hand, have expanded at a rapid rate and become
increasingly significant players in the global economy.

Polarization in politics: Key issues like economic inequality, climate change, and international
security have been difficult to address due to Western political polarization and gridlock.
Populism and nationalism have increased as a result of this, as well as a decline in confidence in
Western political systems and institutions.

Global shifts in power: The world's power balance has changed as a result of China's and other
emerging economies' rise. Trade, technology, and geopolitics have all seen an increase in
competition as a result of China's growing economic and political power, which has put
Western dominance to the test.

Social difficulties: Democracy, human rights, and freedom of speech are Western cultural and
ideological values that have been challenged by the rise of authoritarian regimes and the
growing influence of non-Western cultures and values. Censorship, religious liberty, and social
values are just a few of the topics that have come up in this discussion.

Problems with the institution: It has been challenging for Western-led international
organizations like the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and International Monetary
Fund to adapt to the shifting global landscape and address new issues like cyber security and
climate change.

In conclusion, economic difficulties, political polarization, shifts in global power, cultural

How China's rise poses ideological threats to Western beliefs and values:

Human rights, democracy, and freedom of speech are just a few of the areas in which the rise
of China has presented significant ideological challenges to Western beliefs and values. The rise
of China has challenged Western values in the following ways: Civil liberties: China's
administration has been reprimanded for its treatment of ethnic and strict minorities, like
Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang and Tibetans. China has also been criticized for its restrictions on
civil society and independent media, as well as its suppression of political dissent and freedom
of speech. Western ideals of individual liberties and human rights have been challenged by this.

Democracy: The Western conception of democracy, which places an emphasis on free and fair
elections, checks and balances, and a vibrant civil society, is put in jeopardy by China's one-
party system and lack of political pluralism. Some people see China's authoritarian capitalism
model as an alternative to Western democracy because it places more emphasis on economic
growth than on political liberty.

Speech freedom: Western ideals of free speech and open discourse have been challenged by
China's restrictions on speech freedom and censorship of the internet and social media. As an
alternative to the Western model of open access to information, China's "internet sovereignty,"
which places an emphasis on government control over online content and communications, has
been viewed.

"Soft power": In the areas of soft power, such as education, media, and entertainment,
Western dominance has been challenged by China's expanding cultural and economic
influence. Some individuals have viewed China's Confucius Institutes, which promote Chinese
language and culture abroad, as a threat to Western cultural values and influence.

8
Pei, M. (2016). China's Crony Capitalism: The Dynamics of Regime Decay. Harvard University
Press.
In general, the rise of China has significantly challenged Western beliefs and values, particularly
in the areas of free speech, democracy, and human rights. China's alternative model's merits
are up for debate, but its challenge to Western values has rekindled debates about where these
ideals will go in the changing global landscape.

How China is altering the dynamics of global power:

In a number of ways, China's rise has altered the dynamics of global power:

Financial power: China is now the second-largest economy in the world and a major player in
international trade and investment. China's economic influence has grown worldwide as a
result of its Belt and Road Initiative, which involves substantial investments in infrastructure
projects in developing nations.

Political impact: China's developing financial and military power has given it expanding political
impact, both provincially and worldwide. China has challenged Western dominance in trade,
technology, and geopolitics by utilizing its diplomatic and economic leverage to advance its
interests.

Capacity of the military: China has fostered a cutting edge, mechanically progressed military
and has expanded its guard spending essentially lately. Its tactical extension and regional cases
in the South China Ocean have raised worries among its neighbors and the US.

"Soft power": Through initiatives like Confucius Institutes, which promote Chinese language
and culture abroad, China has also been expanding its influence in the educational and cultural
spheres. China's soft power and influence in shaping global narratives and cultural values have
increased as a result.

Governance of the world: Through its participation in international organizations like the World
Trade Organization and the United Nations, China has become increasingly involved in global
governance. It has also established brand-new organizations like the New Development Bank
and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, which pose a threat to the dominance of
Western-led organizations like the World Bank and IMF.
In general, China's rise has resulted in a significant shift in the dynamics of global power,
challenging the Western powers' dominance. Trade, technology, and geopolitics, as well as
debates regarding the future of the international order and global governance, have seen an
increase in competition and tension as a result.9

What are the arguments presented by the various viewpoints regarding the rise of China and
the decline of Western hegemony?

There are a variety of perspectives on China's rise and the decline of Western hegemony, which
can be broadly categorized as follows: realist, pessimistic, and optimistic

Perspective positive: This viewpoint sees China's ascent as a chance for worldwide participation
and joint effort. This point of view contends that China's economic expansion has helped lift
millions of people out of poverty and that China's growing global influence can contribute to
stability and prosperity. They also argue that China can contribute to global governance and
multilateralism and that Western hegemony is not always a zero-sum game.

Negative perspective: From this point of view, the rise of China poses a threat to global values
and stability. This point of view contends that China's one-party rule, violations of human rights,
and military expansion pose a threat to the liberal international system. They likewise contend
that China's financial development isn't practical, and that its enormous obligation and natural
issues will prompt monetary and social shakiness.10

Realist viewpoint: This viewpoint sees China's ascent as a test to Western authority, yet not
really a danger to worldwide strength. This point of view contends that the West must adapt to
the new reality that China's growing power is a natural consequence of its economic and

9
Rose, G. (2019). The Coming Decline of U.S. Hegemony: Some Conjectures. International
Security, 44(1), 5-38.

10
Shirk, S. L. (2013). China: Fragile Superpower: How China's Internal Politics Could Derail Its
Peaceful Rise. Oxford University Press.
demographic strength. In addition, they argue that competition between China and the West is
unavoidable and that the two sides must resolve their differences and coexist peacefully.

In general, the various viewpoints on the nature of global power and the future of the
international order are reflected in the rise of China and the fall of Western hegemony. While
there is banter over the most ideal way to move toward China's ascent, most concur that it
addresses a critical change in worldwide power elements that will have sweeping ramifications
for the fate of global relations.

The ascent of China is critical for the fate of worldwide relations in more ways than one:

Worldwide monetary impact: China is a major player in international trade and investment and
has grown to become the second largest economy in the world. Its Belt and Road Drive has
expanded its monetary impact in non-industrial nations, while its mechanical headways and
interests in arising enterprises have situated it as a worldwide forerunner in regions, for
example, 5G, man-made intelligence, and environmentally friendly power.

Political impact: China's developing monetary and military power has given it expanding
political impact, both provincially and worldwide. It has challenged Western dominance in
trade, technology, and geopolitics by utilizing its diplomatic and economic leverage to advance
its interests.

New global standards: China is increasingly promoting its own norms and values, such as a
focus on sovereignty and non-interference in other nations' affairs. This poses a threat to the
liberal international order that is led by the West and could usher in a new era of international
norms and standards.

Governance of the world: China has become more engaged with worldwide administration,
remembering through its job for global associations like the Assembled Countries and the
World Exchange Association. It has also established brand-new organizations like the New
Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, which pose a threat to the
dominance of Western-led organizations like the World Bank and IMF.
Collaboration versus competition: However, China's rise also presents opportunities for
cooperation on issues such as climate change, global health, and nuclear non-proliferation.
China's rise has increased competition and tensions with the United States and other Western
powers. China's rise is important for the future of international relations because it could usher
in a new era of global governance and international norms and challenge Western power. For
the benefit of all nations, the global community must discover means of managing differences,
fostering stability and cooperation, and addressing common challenges.

Conclusion:

All in all, the ascent of China and the rot of Western authority address a huge change in
worldwide power elements, with expansive ramifications for global relations. Western
dominance has been challenged by China's economic expansion, political influence, military
capabilities, and soft power, which has raised concerns about the international order's future.
The majority of people agree that this shift heralds a new era of competition and cooperation
between China and the West, despite divergent viewpoints regarding its nature. The world
community will need to find ways to manage differences and promote stability, prosperity, and
cooperation for the benefit of all nations as China continues to rise. The rise of China and the
decline of Western hegemony are not necessarily a zero-sum game, and the two sides must
collaborate to address common issues like climate change, economic inequality, and global
health crises in a peaceful manner.

. Bibliography


1. Christensen, T. J. (2015). The China Challenge: Shaping the Choices of a Rising Power. W. W.
Norton & Company.

2. Ikenberry, G. J. (2018). The End of the Liberal International Order? International Affairs, 94(1), 7-
23.

3. Jacques, M. (2012). When China Rules the World: The End of the Western World and the Birth of
a New Global Order. Penguin Books.
4. Johnston, A. I. (2013). Is China a Status Quo Power? International Security, 37(4), 5-56.

5. Kupchan, C. A. (2018). The End of the American Era: U.S. Foreign Policy and the Geopolitics of
the Twenty-first Century. Knopf.

6. Mearsheimer, J. J. (2014). The Tragedy of Great Power Politics. W. W. Norton & Company.

7. Nye, J. S. (2015). Is the American Century Over? Polity Press.

8. Pei, M. (2016). China's Crony Capitalism: The Dynamics of Regime Decay. Harvard University
Press.

9. Rose, G. (2019). The Coming Decline of U.S. Hegemony: Some Conjectures. International
Security, 44(1), 5-38.

10. Shirk, S. L. (2013). China: Fragile Superpower: How China's Internal Politics Could Derail Its
Peaceful Rise. Oxford University Press.