In this article, authors Thomas Fingar and David M. Lampton discuss US policies to manage relations with China, and argue that they cannot succeed if they are based on a distorted understanding of PRC politics.

The authors provide critiques of the flawed characterizations of PRC politics and policymaking that often prevail in Washington, then offer their own explanation of what has driven the shift in PRC behavior. Concluding with recommendations for policy and approach, the authors thereby suggest realistic and modest measures to avoid unmitigated hostility and pave the way toward a future guided by the search for coexistence, bounded competition, and productive cooperation.