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China, Geopolitics and Geoeconomics. How Not to Fall into the Trap of Narration?

Author

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  • Grzegorz Malinowski

    (Kozminski University, Department of Economics, Warsaw, Poland)

Abstract

Chinese infrastructural projects like the “Belt & Road Initiative” or the “Chinese 16 + 1 Initiative” are trapped in geopolitical narratives. Geopolitical concepts dressed in scientific robes make the logic of warfare begin to prevail over the logic of cooperation. As a consequence, something that was to be an opportunity for less developed countries, becomes the axis of conflict between the great powers. In this paper, I identify the logic of warfare as an underlining characteristic of geopolitical reasoning and show why it is incompatible with economic approach. I also argue that geopolitical concepts are not scientific theories, but rather self-fulfilling prophecies. This theoretical background allows to detect the biggest obstacles related to many Chinese initiatives, and also indicates some necessary means to neutralize geopolitical narratives.

Suggested Citation

  • Grzegorz Malinowski, 2019. "China, Geopolitics and Geoeconomics. How Not to Fall into the Trap of Narration?," Acta Oeconomica, Akadémiai Kiadó, Hungary, vol. 69(4), pages 495-522, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:aka:aoecon:v:69:y:2019:i:4:p:495-522
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Anastas Vangeli, 2017. "China's Engagement with the Sixteen Countries of Central, East and Southeast Europe under the Belt and Road Initiative," China & World Economy, Institute of World Economics and Politics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, vol. 25(5), pages 101-124, September.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    China; geopolitics; geoeconomics; logic of war; self-fulfilling prophecies; Belt & Road; 16+1 initiative;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • B41 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology - - - Economic Methodology
    • F42 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - International Policy Coordination and Transmission
    • F51 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - International Conflicts; Negotiations; Sanctions
    • F52 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - National Security; Economic Nationalism
    • P48 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Other Economic Systems - - - Legal Institutions; Property Rights; Natural Resources; Energy; Environment; Regional Studies

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