Exploring ‘Chinese Encounters with America’: A Reflection on Lost Shared Interests

In the realm of international relations, the dynamics between nations can shift dramatically over time. The relationship between the United States and China, once characterized by optimism and shared interests, has transformed into a complex landscape of rivalry and mistrust. This evolution is poignantly examined in the book *Chinese Encounters with America: Journeys That Shaped the Future of China*, which highlights the stories of twelve Chinese individuals who navigated the waters of engagement with the U.S.

A Historical Context

The book begins by recalling a moment from March 2000, when a package from the U.S. Congress reached Shanghai’s Fudan University. Inside was an American flag that had flown over the Capitol, sent as a tribute to the late Xie Xide, a prominent Chinese scientist instrumental in fostering cultural and scientific exchanges between the two nations. Such gestures of goodwill seem almost inconceivable today, as the bilateral relations between the U.S. and China have deteriorated significantly.

The edited volume, co-authored by Deborah Davis, a leading sociologist focused on China, and Terry Lautz, who has written extensively on American experiences in China, seeks to remind readers of the optimism that once defined U.S.-China relations. The twelve profiles featured in the book span various fields, from academia and environmental activism to diplomacy and sports, illustrating a rich tapestry of interactions that flourished after the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1979.

The Shift from Cooperation to Competition

Davis and Lautz argue that the underlying shift in U.S.-China relations can be traced back to China’s emergence as a major economic and military power. This unexpected rise has triggered a downward spiral in bilateral relations. As Washington perceived China’s ascent and its assertive diplomacy as a challenge to the existing world order, Beijing began to view the U.S. as a threat to its interests, particularly regarding Taiwan. This new power dynamic has eroded the long-held assumption that engagement would lead to positive changes, resulting in a climate of fear and distrust.

The co-editors emphasize that the book aims to highlight the benefits of cooperation and mutual understanding, even amidst significant differences.

Individual Stories of Transformation

The personal narratives of the twelve individuals in *Chinese Encounters with America* reveal the profound impact that encounters with the U.S. have had on their lives and, by extension, on China itself. The experiences of these individuals vary greatly, influenced by the political and economic climate of their times.

For instance, Xie Xide, who earned her PhD from MIT in 1951, became the first female president of a major Chinese research university in 1983. However, her career was not without challenges; she spent years cleaning floors during the Cultural Revolution. Similarly, Wang Jisi, a prominent scholar of U.S.-China relations, faced a vastly different landscape upon returning to China after spending years herding sheep in Inner Mongolia.

Another notable figure is Lang Ping, a celebrated sports personality who coached the U.S. women’s volleyball team to a silver medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympics before leading China’s team to gold at the 2014 World Championships. Her journey reflects the complex interconnections between sports and diplomacy.

The Legacy of Engagement

Davis and Lautz highlight the story of Ji Chaozhu, a diplomat and interpreter whose life encapsulates the tumultuous history of Chinese politics and U.S.-China relations. Ji’s childhood in New York City was followed by a return to China in 1950, where he struggled to reintegrate into his homeland after years abroad. His career included significant moments, such as interpreting for Mao Zedong during President Nixon’s historic visit in 1972. Ji’s experiences illustrate the intricate balance between personal conviction and national loyalty.

Despite the current narrative in some U.S. circles that questions the wisdom of engagement with China, Davis and Lautz assert that none of the individuals profiled in their book view their experiences in the U.S. as mistakes. Instead, they returned to China equipped with knowledge and skills that contributed to the country’s modernization and global standing.

Looking Ahead

As the book spans various epochs, including the Cold War, reconciliation, reform, and globalization, the co-editors ponder who might be profiled in the current climate of rivalry and distrust. They suggest that contemporary figures in science and technology, such as Deng Xing Wang, a plant biologist who transitioned from studying at UC Berkeley to directing a major research institute in China, exemplify the ongoing potential for collaboration despite geopolitical tensions.

Deng’s journey underscores the notion that groundbreaking research and innovation thrive on cooperation across national boundaries, even as governments may view scientific endeavors through a lens of competition.

Conclusion

*Chinese Encounters with America* serves as a poignant reminder of a time when the U.S. and China found common ground in their interactions. As the relationship continues to evolve, the stories of these twelve individuals highlight the importance of recognizing shared interests and the potential benefits of collaboration, even amidst an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Key Facts

– The book *Chinese Encounters with America* profiles twelve Chinese individuals who engaged with the U.S. and explores the historical context of U.S.-China relations.
– Co-editors Deborah Davis and Terry Lautz emphasize the shift from optimism to rivalry due to China’s rise as a global power.
– The narratives illustrate personal and professional transformations resulting from encounters with America.
– Figures like Ji Chaozhu and Lang Ping exemplify the complex interplay between individual experiences and broader geopolitical trends.
– The book advocates for recognizing shared interests and the potential for cooperation despite current tensions.

Source: www.npr.org