Journal of International Studies

In one of the best pieces on the subject in recent years, the  New York Times  magazine  released  what can best be described as an interactive feast regarding the delicate subject of the South China Sea. Beneath all the interactive maps, previously unreleased photos and eye-catching video were some interesting aspects of China’s strategy regarding this disputed area that is sure to be of interest to Asia hands. The article itself is certainly worth your time just for the sheer artistic quality in which this important issue is covered. Sticking to the business at hand, there was one specific section that caught my eye. The piece notes comments from PLA General Zhang Zhaozhong regarding what is being called China’s “cabbage strategy.” The  Times  describes it as “surrounding a contested area with so many boats — fishermen, fishing administration ships, marine surveillance ships, navy warships” that the disputed island is essentially wrapped like lay...

For all the talk concerning the dangers of  new military technologies spreading across the globe , cyberwar, scary missiles dubbed “ carrier-killers ” in the popular press, or  rogue non-state actors launching bold asymmetric strikes  that are tough to predict and even  harder to stop , if we have learned anything from the (as at the time of writing) unsolved budget and debt ceiling battles here in Washington it is this: the only real danger to America is the harm it can inflict upon itself (and the globe).  Before any discussion can begin about Washington’s self-imposed crisis, let us for a moment take stock of where America is today. All in all, it’s not a bad position to be in. Consider America’s internal challenges — devoid of all the political musings and hype. While issues of  debt ,  demographics  and  entitlements  present future challenges that surely must be addressed over the medium to long-term — compared to ...