Why do Chinese IR scholars matter?

Abstract

This chapter reviews the state of the art in the studies of Chinese international relations (IR) scholars. It argues that these scholars as a subject of research have a unique value in understanding Chinese foreign policy. The chapter discusses four possible models as a starting point for other researchers to investigate the role of Chinese IR scholars in policy making in China’s political system: the “epistemic community model”, the “free market model”, the “policy signalling model”, and the “mirroring policy model”. There are two methodological reasons to treat Chinese IR scholars as a new focal point in the study of China’s foreign policy. First, unlike the general public, the views of IR scholars or experts can be more valuable in examining China’s foreign policy and IR. Second, the changing decision-making structure in China offers a unique social role to Chinese IR scholars. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.