The security dilemma between PRC and ASEAN

Abstract

Security dilemma is defined as that a statea??s increase of its security decreases the security of the others, which is one of the important theories of realism. In contrast, liberalism introduced complex interdependence concept into the international relations theories. By linking the two schools of thoughts, this paper tries to find whether security dilemma can be applied to the China-ASEAN case and what are the major factors resulting in security dilemma. Furthermore, this paper explores the appropriate ways to mitigate security dilemma and see whether variables in complex interdependence are applicable. The China-ASEAN security relationships were investigated chronologically since the 1950s, while perceptions of the two sides for each other have also changed correspondingly. With the enhancing economic interactions and mutual exchanges, along with the governmental policy changes, the complex interdependence of the two sides has been increased to a higher level, which in return ameliorated the security dilemma situation.