Summary:
The book examines the shifting dynamics in Asia following the global financial crisis, highlighting the region's increasing economic independence and confidence, which is leading to a potential distancing from the United States. It discusses the implications of this divide for global politics, economics, and security, suggesting that America must adapt to a new role to maintain its influence in an increasingly Asia-centric world.
Key points:
1. Post-Crisis Divide: The 2007-2008 crisis weakened US influence and showcased Asia's economic strength, leading to differing US-Asia interests.
2. Rise of China: China's growth is changing Asia's power dynamics, affecting how other Asian nations react and interact with it.
3. Asian Regionalism: Asian countries are increasingly partnering with each other, driven by uncertainty about the US and the need to counterbalance China.
4. US-Asia Relations: The US struggles to maintain its role in Asia, balancing trade and security while adjusting to a world where it's not the sole superpower.
5. Future of Asia's Integration: Asia's integration could go in various directions, with Japan, India, and ASEAN influencing whether the region aligns more with the US or becomes more independent.