Pacific Power Paradox

Van Jackson is a senior lecturer in international relations at Victoria University of Wellington and the author of several books including On the Brink and Rival Reputations.

“Jackson’s book is very thought-provoking and it shines a light on Asia’s fragile peace, and the impact that great powers can have on that peace.”—John West, Australian Outlook, Australian Institute of International Affairs“This book presents a timely and critical account of American statecraft toward Asian peace since the Nixon administration. Provocative in theoretical reasoning, rigorous in empirical analysis, and rich in policy implications, it is a must-read for students of American foreign policy and Asian studies.”—Chung-in Moon, Yonsei University“Van Jackson’s Pacific Power Paradox is a ‘must read’ for policymakers, would-be policymakers and students of history focused on America’s role in Asia. Jackson has not only written an impressive, tightly written distillation of the history of America’s foreign policy on Asia, but tells his narrative through an incredibly useful, practical frame—the tools of statecraft.”—Philip W. Yun, president and CEO of World Affairs“In this refreshing and stimulating book, Van Jackson challenges the conventional wisdom about the role of the United States in Asia with sophistication and rigor. Anyone interested in the region’s past—and future—should read it.”—M. Taylor Fravel, Massachusetts Institute of Technology