AMST3013 The Alliance and the Re-Emergence of China

The recent heightening of tensions between China and the US complicates Australia's relations with both nations. This topic analyses the triangular relationships among these three states and identifies cyber as a key factor in the dynamic changes affecting their strategic and economic relationships. The Alliance relationship between Australia and the US has deepened in recent years in its diplomatic, defense and economic dimensions. At the same time China's economic situation has altered as has its strategic policy, both in terms of spheres of influence and its ambitions in the digital domain. All of this greatly complicates Australia's traditional policy of following a hedging strategy with respect to both its main economic partner and its main strategic partner. The topic will include consideration of the research programs being developed in the Jeff Bleich Center for the US Alliance in Digital Technology, Security, and Governance, recently established at Flinders.

This topic aims to:

• Introduce students to both the history and current status of relations between the three states, China, Australia and the US
• Alert students to the possible implications of China's rise on the Alliance
• Consider the impact that changes in the strategic and economic relationship between the three countries may have on the future operations of the Alliance
• Consider the operation of the alliance within the East Asian security environment
• Further enhance students' ability to conduct independent research and to assess and evaluate different types of sources
• Consolidate students' written and communication skills

1. Analyse the interests and intentions of the three states in their current relations
2. Investigate the liklihood and nature of China's rise
3. Evaluate the overall strategic, economic and cultural impact of China's rise on Australia, the US and the alliance
4. Analyse how the Alliance may best respond to the changing regional dynamics
5. Critically analyse and assess a range of sources relevant to the topic
6. Work collaboratively and independently and to apply knowledge in a range of situations
7. Communicate effectively by constructing and developing a coherent argument in written and oral assessment