The Thucydides’ Trap Explained
What is Thucydides’ Trap?
Thucydides’ Trap is a term that refers to the idea that a rising power poses a threat to an established power, as exemplified by the Peloponnesian War between the ancient Greek city-states of Athens and Sparta, chronicled by Thucydides. The term was coined by Harvard professor Graham Allison in his book “Destined for War: Can America and China Escape Thucydides's Trap?”
Why is it relevant today?
Due to China’s ever-growing economic and military power, the United States has identified China as its key strategic competitor. The rise of China in international affairs has raised the question of whether the United States and China are headed towards a Thucydides’ Trap situation, as the United States worries about losing its dominant position in the world order.
How can we avoid it?
To avoid a Thucydides’ Trap scenario, both the United States and China must form a cooperative relationship that prioritizes mutual well-being and they must adopt humanitarian values to promote a shared global vision, rather than engaging in zero-sum competition over resources and power. To work towards this goal, both nations must acknowledge the importance of communication and dialogue, which enables them to address their respective concerns and worldviews, and must be willing to compromise to establish common ground and cooperation to steer clear of the inherent risks of conflict.
