Background of Study

[1]. In 2003 for instance, the US’s GDP was eight times that of China. Currently, however, the US GDP is less than three times that of China. Analysts argue that, with such a growth rate, there is a high likelihood of China becoming the world’s largest economy by the end of the year [23]. It is such sentiments that have considerably worsened the relationship between the two countries. While Americans opposed these sentiments, y because on the other hand, believe that the American government and its people relent with having China as the second world power. The differences in ideologies between the two countries demonstrate this unfolding tussle between China and US. Ideologically, China and U.S. hold differing opinions on bilateral issues such as human rights, trade, the intellectual property laws, and Taiwan [2]. This has created fertile ground for the development of suspicion and mistrust not only between the two countries’ governments, but also among the citizens.

There exist two conflicting perceptions by the Chinese about the Americans coined by the media experts and the civil society in the People’s Republic of China. A research conducted by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace sought to find the opinions of the elite group in the Chinese society. Results of the study revealed that contrary to the normal view, the Chinese do not view the Americans as enemies, rather, as competitors for the global economy [3]. This group of elites included journalists, top business executives, government officials, and military personnel. Among the questions that the respondents had to reply to included their thoughts on which country ought to be the leading super power. Interestingly, as the results showed, only 45% of the Chinese elites felt that China ought to be leading the global affairs. On the flipside, however, the remaining 55 percent supported America as a super power [4].

Surprisingly, a significant percentage of the Chinese government elites felt that China should not play any role in global leadership. This elite group argued that what America had done over the past century was commendable to grant its leadership in the global affairs. 12 % of the military elites and 21% of the government elites held this opinion. Moreover, the study showed that 22% of the Chinese military elites felt that the United States should be at the helm of global affairs holding that this would make the world more stable. Despite these sentiments, the Chinese elites described the Americans as arrogant, violent, and aggressive. The latter argument shifts our focus on how negatively the Chinese view the Americans.

Dishonest nature of Americans

Media reports, especially one of China’s top newspapers claim that the Americans are dishonest, untrustworthy, and arrogant. According to the People’s daily, the Chinese hold the perception that the Americans are reliable, honest, and to some extent, righteous. However, this is not the case to a large section of the media, as they term them as misleading. Especially to those who have never been to the United States, these beliefs hold. For instance, the Chinese media accused Apple Corporation of discriminating against the Chinese customers. According to these reports, instead of Apple focusing on all customers, serving them equally, it rightfully discriminates against the Chinese customers. This incident forced the CEO, Tim Cook, to issue an apology to the Chinese customer base.

The article also elaborates on another sad incident that faced a Chinese citizen while in America. After a run in with the airport staff in New York, the Chinese was denied the right of boarding a plane destined for China. Further worsening the already sad situation, the airline failed to compensate him after missing his flight. This was an indication of poor customer service and infringement of human rights. As such, it sparked criticism on the operations of the United Airlines. Consequently, some of the Chinese hold feelings of resentment and view that the Americans dishonest, contrary to their depiction in the movies [5].

Despite these incidences, however, the Chinese view the Americans in a positive way [6]. They admire their culture, democracy, and lifestyle as depicted in the movies. Most of the Chinese population inspired by the norms and values, which the American government stands for greatly, respect America. These views hold ground particularly because most of the Chinese people believe that the world will continue to be stable if America is still at the helm of global leadership. Human rights groups, however, argue that the America is a symbol of freedom and human rights, factors that are the embodiment of a super power. Subsequently, there are fewer negative views on the Americans. The reality is however different, especially because most of these people have never been to America and this belief only exists from what they see in the movies [7].

The American-Chinese Military Alliance

The Chinese government is overly suspicious over the ties that the American and the Japanese government have developed over the years in regards to military [8]. The Chinese military analysts viewed these ties, beginning in mid-1990s as a way to curb the remilitarization of Japan. China has had a long and negative history with Japan, with military artilleries playing a great role in changing these disparities. In 1937, the Japanese attacked a divided China during the famous Sino-Japanese war. During the war, Japan took some of the Chinese citizens as slaves. The then president Chiang Kai-Shek won the war against Japan in 1945, and this aggravated the tense power control that both Japan and China had over Asia. After World War II, sanctions imposed in Japan limited its military capacity, a factor that gave China an upper hand in the affairs of Asia [9].

However, the recent involvement of the American and Japanese military over the recent past has led to suspicion by the Chinese military analysts. Japan, for instance, dispatched troops to Iraq. The then US deputy of the secretary of state, Richard Armitage, recorded that the US-Japanese military ties had been a worthy endeavor and claimed that this partnership was bound to continue [10]. The Chinese government is concerned that the partnership between the US-Japanese military seeks to deter China from using force in the Taiwan Strait. The American government equally has been pushing for assertive security reforms and policies in Japan, which will enable it to remilitarize again. China believes that the United States plans to curb it military growth and influence over Asia by empowering Japan’s military capability.

Successive US governments have led this campaign through different actions. The terror attack that hit the Bush Administration in 9/11 showed the problems facing world military. Consequently, the US government embarked on a campaign to form a global military alliance. The US settling for Japan rather than China for this project was a bitter blow to China. The relationship of these two countries deepened when Japan deployed troops to Afghanistan and Iraq in a bid to help the American forces. Additionally, Japan’s technical expertise was useful when deploying a theater missile, which needed integration of the command and communication systems between the two forces. This action caused the American Army to reconsider setting up military camp in Japan. This would serve as the military headquarters of the region. President Bush also showed his support for the inclusion of Japan into the United Nations Security council as a permanent member by urging the country to review its Peace Constitution [11].

The remilitarization of Japan is a concern for China not only because of the atrocities committed during 1930s and 1940s but also for the stability of the region and in particular the Taiwan Strait. Japan, under its current leader Koizumi, has sought to increase the tension between the two nations by honoring warlords who committed atrocities in China during the Second World War. Additionally, Koizumi has been on a project to whitewash the nation’s ill history with China erasing all negative events written in textbooks and journals. These actions are not only painful but also equally humiliating to the Chinese people. Subsequently, China believes that the remilitarization of Japan will lead to an irresponsible nation, which is not capable of reconciling with its neighbors [12]. In 2004, the National Defense Program in Japan named China as one of the threats to its national security and developed possible defense strategies in the event that China attacked.

In 2005, the US-Japanese Security Consultative Committee released a report outlining the objectives of the alliance. Notably, the inclusion of Taiwan and other Chinese related issues in the discussion. These Chinese policies differ strongly with the US military policies. Washington is of the view that empowering Japan would lead to a more assertive worldwide security policy. On the contrary, China believes that the Americans in enforcing its agendas in the North East use Japan as a puppet. Moreover, Japan would be in a better position to deal with matters in Taiwan Strait that China has mishandled for a long time. There are worries that the alliance between the US and the Japanese could result into a dispute in between the China and US.

The Chinese populace, however, is in admiration of the dexterity of the US military. The US government has created a worldwide mental perception about the strength of its military [13]. Furthermore, there are many notable inventions in regards to warfare artillery developed by the United States. For instance, the atomic and nuclear bombs, fighter jets with stealth capability, coupled with the use of drones in their military operations are wrong on the face of Chinese people. Subsequently, America is termed to be generations ahead in terms of military arsenal [14]. Moreover, their fighting techniques in combats are very effective, creating tension between the two countries.

Many were pessimistic about the results and the achievements of the US army during the Iraqi war after its deployment during the Bush administration. Travel warrants, advisories, and sanctions are among the commonly used war tactics used by the US against its enemies. America termed Iraq and Afghanistan, which were the hideouts of the Taliban and the Al Qaeda terrorist groups, as no go zones. However, the American army achieved what many analysts considered impossible. The combination of advanced technology, innovations, and military tactics proved indispensable for this cause. These factors, compounded with the ability that the United States had in marshaling the allied forces brought sanity swiftly to countries that had been grappling with war for over a decade.

Similarly, in Bosnia, the United States military recorded victory in its mission, which many security analysts considered as impossible. Despite the lack of experience and inadequate geographical knowledge of Bosnia, the military won the war. Furthermore, the militants outnumbered the military personnel sent in the war. However, these factors did not deter the operation that resulted into few US casualties [15]. The agility and the power of the US army who were able to win the Second Iraq War despite having fewer military personnel compared to the militants further surprised military planners. Numerous innovations that replaced old military tactics with reckless speed and integration of unproven technologies contributed to the success of the military [16].

Further, the fact that the US resulted to the use of drones, which are more effective and much cheaper than the conventional fighter jets is a worry to many Chinese people. Additionally, because of the remote control of these drones, there are no resultant casualties to the American soldiers. In the recent past, the use of drones in airstrikes has led to the death of top Al Qaeda commanders and bomb expert with minimal civilian casualties [17]. While this is a cause of celebration for the Americans, others feel that such actions infringe the rights of the people, which is wrong. Humanitarian groups hold that the use of such weapons on masses of the people is wrong, and no country should indulge in such war tactics. The choice by America to disregard these directives leads to increased tension levels between America and countries such as China.

The prowess of the military won the admiration and respect of the army in the US. China’s military strategies have their bases on labor, as opposed to technology hence leading to many casualties during the war. The tactics used by the Americans during combat have astounded many analysts due to their effectiveness and efficiency. Currently, China is now trying to change the priority from the economic progress that it has realized over the years to military technology and arsenal [18]. It is more evident that China seeks to mirror the warfare capabilities of the United States. For instance, the government currently dedicates more resources to space exploration and the military research. In 2009, the Chinese government increased the military budget by 14.9% to stand at 480.69 billion RMB [19]. This colossal figure is equivalent to $70.2 billion.

It is worth noting that this is the 21^st year that the Chinese government has increased allocation to the military by double digits. The military research programs in China have begun to bear fruits. In 2007, the Chinese military was able to destroy a satellite in space using ballistic missiles launched from earth. However, both the Russians and the Americans stopped the project twenty years ago because and security needs, but also a strategy of setting standards to increase in power status of the country [20].

Political system of governance

The Chinese citizens admire the political system of governance in the United States. This democratic system has undergone tremendous changes over the years to one that the entire world embraces. In addition to popularity of American democracy, it is also popular for the respect of the rule of law and more so human rights. Transparency and integrity characterize the institutions and system. The resultant impact of this is equal opportunities to all groups of people in the country. This is, however, not an easy task whatsoever. Reports indicate that thousands have been tortured and humiliated in the past. Forced labor and slavery characterized the 17^th century in America where Africans worked in American plantations and industries for little or no pay. However, successive governments such as the Lincoln’s Administration put an end to the slave trade. This notwithstanding, in the 20^th century, America grappled with the challenge of racial discrimination where the blacks were viewed as inferior hence black segregation. Civil movements led by activists such as Martin King Luther Junior championed for equal rights in the American society. This was a dark period in the history of US as assassinations of key political figures such as Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Junior, and President J. F.Kennedy characterized the period. However, these trying times have defined the culture of America as it is today, a just, democratic society with equal opportunities.

In contrast, the Chinese government does not attach great meaning to democracy or political reforms. The Chinese view democracy as a means to an end while it is the ultimate goal in the US [21]. Since 1949, after the formation of the People’s Republic of China through the ousting of the then president Chiang Kai Shek through a military coup, little and no deliberations have taken place. The government has taken double stands on reform issues. For instance, periods of anti-reforms succeeded those periods of reforms as the government tried to regain control of the country. For instance, the 1980s where the Chinese government tried to experiment on elections at the village level was an indication of these changes. This model was been implemented at the local elections where the electorate voted for their preferred candidate through secret ballot [22]. However, party and high government ranking officials used their authority to delist some of the candidates in these elective posts.

Another instance of failed political reforms was the democratic reform in factories that happened in the 1950s. This model of democracy based its ideologies on the assumption that the workers had the ability to identify those among them who had good managerial skills. Mainly, this project sought to improve the quality of production as the top tier leaders in government had the ability to control the decisions made in factories. Further, democracy was a way of boosting the morale of the workers hence increasing the levels of efficiency. However, this model failed due to increased rates of corruption and poor decisions made by the elected managers.

With this understanding, the Chinese government has failed to borrow ideas from the democratic approaches of the US. The popular party having implemented changes in its constitution seeks to introduce “limited competition” for top party seats. These changes referred to as intraparty democracy seeks to improve the public relations of the Party and the citizens. However, the implemented reforms have neither led to the formation of opposition parties or the enhanced transparency and public debate on the decisions taken by the leaders. As such, the Chinese government has failed to embrace democracy and civil rights and has adopted the populist form of governance. This makes the Chinese people an unsatisfied lot with the populist form of government, riddled with massive corruption in the Party. The mass media through the internet has spread awareness of the negatives of the populist form of government hence spreading feelings of discontent among the people.

Lack of respect of Human rights by China

There are increased levels of concern for human rights by the world currently. China, however, has failed to set if not meet the global standards for human rights. For years, the Chinese government repressed ethnic and religious practices in the Xinjiang-Uighur region. Moreover, the Party imposed laws requiring all people in Uighur to learn Chinese instead of their mother tongue. This region is mainly inhibited the Uighur who are Muslims. The actions taken by the Chinese government were against basic human rights. The government held the argument that it was taking measures against terrorism in the country by denying the Uighur minority group the right to worship. They also claimed that the Muslim community in the area was planning to establish an independent state. The protest by the Uighur made the government take aggressive measures. In addition to this, the government used riot police and paramilitary personnel to quell the protests carried out by a number of unsatisfied people. The government further disconnected electricity and internet in the area [23]. The handling of the situation was more worrisome than the protests.

The Chinese government has taken the opportunity of the current global financial crisis to influence policies in their favor. The continued troubles associated with the global financial crises have affected the United States more than China. The People’s Republic of China has used this opportunity to amass colossal amounts of foreign exchange reserves, approximated at $1.9 trillion. This figure is as of December 2008. Not only has the government of China bought foreign exchange reserves but also bought U.S debt and treasuries.

aid in the economic recovery during the recession period requires government borrowing. China is the major financier of this program, as it did not lose a lot during the financial crisis [24]. According to economic analysts, this could be detrimental to America more so if China changes its foreign exchange purchase patterns or if it decides use the government debt as a way to leverage bilateral policies to their favor.

in terms of revenues. China has a very unstable economy, especially because it there is a need to strike a balance between exports and domestic spending in the Chinese economy. As such, the Chinese government has allocated $586 billion towards the stimulus program meant to cushion the economy from the effect of the global financial crisis [26].

In June 2013, the Obama Administration sought to improve the ties that it had with the People’s Republic of China. According to the president, there have been differently ideological between the two countries. Despite this, he insists that cooperation is the only way to address global issues that face these super powers. The president also noted that he is willing to improve the relations that US has with China. The first lady’s tour to China focused at improving the American image between the Chinese and Americans, following the declaration by Obama. Indeed, cooperation between both countries is necessary for their development.

Forging the way forward

The “New Model of Power Relations” outlines the key areas that the two countries need to pay attention to, in order to realize a meaningful relationship. The document also lists ten points, which both parties in the agreement have to adhere to if they have to achieve these strategies. These include, treating each other with respect, resolving cooperate in order to solve global problems, resolving to include each party in regional agreements, and committing to transparency of one’s actions. Further, committing to the fact that the economic relations between the countries occur at a level playing field with the aim of success to the parties included, coupled with resolving not to change status quo when it comes to territorial disputes are also ways in which the two countries can improve their relationship. Additionally, showing dedication in solving regional disputes peacefully and with neutrality, resolving to renew international rules, laws, and institutions that reflect the universal values and showing commitment to adhere to the international laws can solve the problem. Finally, pledging to seek a beneficial cooperation [27].

Moreover, The US loses approximately $200billion annually in terms of revenues, loss of jobs and reduced sales due to the counterfeit products produced in China [28]. Some people argue that it will not change the perceptions that both countries have about each other. With this regard, the Chinese consider America as a stumbling block to their nation becoming the superpower while the American sees China as a threat to their existence as a superpower. However, the “New Model of Power Relations” brings in solutions to the misunderstandings that both nations have. It also outlines plans, so the economic growth of America and China hence benefiting both countries.

China has had a steady increase in self-confidence, in its military and economic growth. As a result, China sees the US as a competitor and a declining power and more so if the American economy continues on a downward trend. The multifaceted perception that the Chinese have about US depends on the issue under discussion. Additionally, the Chinese citizens and their government have varying opinions about the US. Culturally, the Chinese admire the US due to the images relayed by the media and the movies. However, not all Chinese agree that the Americans are kind and humble. Some believe that the US citizens are arrogant and dishonest. It is evident that the Chinese government and its citizens are of varying opinion. The government of China has adopted a populist mechanism. They democracy comes with the challenge of not controlling power and as such institutions in China are poorly developed. The citizens, on the other hand, want incorporation of democracy in governance to ensure accountability and reduce the levels of corruption in China. The military, on the other hand, elicits the different reaction from the Chinese government. The relationship between the American and Japanese Army has led distrust between the two nations. However, the military prowess and capabilities of America have won the heart of many globally including China.

The tension between the ideologies and principles of these super powers is likely to end with the agreement known as “The New Model of Power Relations” being signed by both President Obama and President Xi [29]. This agreement entails pertinent issues such as the Chinese cyber-attacks on the Americans and the US-Japanese military relationship. However, analysts may view this relationship as an act of public relation. What will happen to the US-Japanese military alliance? Will China enforce strict laws or take a measure against companies that violate the Intellectual Laws that have resulted in the United States losing over $250 billion in revenues annually? Will the relationship between these superpowers improve with time or will it disintegrate due to differences in ideology? Time is the answer to these questions. Overall, the two super powers are seen as trying to mend their fences for the good of their citizens and the progress of their nations.

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