Evolving Identity Politics and Cross-Strait Relations

The cross Taiwan Strait clash has evolved from a regime challenge revolving around ideological confrontation between Taipei and Beijing into a conflict about Taiwan's nationhood. In Evolving Identity Politics and Cross-Strait Relations, Yana Zuo shows that Taiwan's future is still full of uncertainty and unpredictability. A mutually acceptable solution is not likely without the 'one China' principle as an independent Taiwan fundamentally challenges China's modern national identity. Zuo demonstrates that dialogues between nationalism studies and international relations are urgently needed in explaining much of the identity-related conflict. States are under pressure of finding balance between an ordered state and a harmonious society. National consciousness contributes as a possible starting point to bring the society back to constructivism theorization of identity.

"Yana Zuo's book should be read by anyone interested in Taiwan's domestic politics and foreign affairs. By highlighting the interplay between domestic politics, international relations and nationalism, it significantly revises and enriches our understanding of the role of identity in international relations." Amitav Acharya, Professor, School of International Service, American University, UNESCO Chair in Transnational Challenges and Governance

"Zuo does a nice job of putting Taiwan firmly on the map of cross-strait relations. She shows both the power and the limitations of a democratic identity in international society, and why what might seem like parochial identity debates in Taiwan have deeply unsettling implications for the government on the mainland." Barry Buzan, Emeritus Professor of International Relations, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK

"Such a highly fascinating work on the problem of identity and recognition. Taking the cross-strait relations between Taiwan and Mainland China during almost 70 years as the case, Yana Zuo has shown her original analysis on both theoretical problems and empirical issues. A must-read piece for researchers and students who are interested in contemporary Chinese politics." Dr. Huang Ping, Professor, Director General, Institute of European Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, President, Chinese Association of American Studies, Vice President, National Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies

Autorentext

Yana Zuo is Assistant Professor at the School of International and Public Affairs, Shanghai Jiaotong University, China. Her primary research interests include theories of international relations, ethnic conflicts, and legitimacy. She was a contributor to Lindmann and Ringmar's The International Politics of Recognition.

Inhalt
Foreword; Richard Little

1. Introduction
2. Structure, Narrative, and Identity Construction: Theories and Methods
3. Taiwan Province of China: 1949 1988
4. 'One China' in Future: 1988 2000
5. China is China, Taiwan is Taiwan: 2000 2008
6. Journey to the Unknown: Taiwan's Identity Evolution and the CSR
7. Conclusion: Identity Politics and International Relations