The Avoidable War is a sobering and informative look at the potential for conflict between the United States and China, written by former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. The book examines the many dangers that could lead to a catastrophic war between these two global powers, including miscalculations, misunderstandings, and outright provocations. Drawing on extensive research and interviews with key experts in the fields of politics, security, economics, and history, Rudd provides a clear-eyed assessment of both countries’ strengths and weaknesses – as well as how each side views the other. The result is an eye-opening exploration of what could happen if relations between Beijing and Washington continue to deteriorate.
For who is this book for ?
The Avoidable War is for anyone interested in understanding the potential for conflict between the United States and China. Rudd provides a wealth of information about both countries’ histories, politics, economies, and military capabilities, as well as the views of key experts on what could happen if relations continue to deteriorate.
Pros :
- The Avoidable War provides a clear-eyed assessment of both countries’ strengths and weaknesses.
- It offers an eye-opening exploration of what could happen if relations between Beijing and Washington continue to deteriorate.
- The book is written by former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, who has extensive knowledge on the topic matter.
Cons :
- The Avoidable War is a dense and long read, not meant for the casual reader.
- The book can be dry at times, with a lot of statistics and data cited throughout.
- Despite its length, The Avoidable War does not cover every possible angle or scenario that could lead to war between the US and China.
Learn more about the author
Kevin Rudd is the 26th Prime Minister of Australia and a distinguished fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. He has also served as foreign minister and ambassador to China.
Reader Reviews
“Rudd has written the most comprehensive and balanced book to date on the potential for conflict between America’s ‘indispensable’ ally, Australia, and China – a must read for anyone interested in geopolitics.”
“Rudd has written an important and timely book on the potential for a conflict between the United States and China…The Avoidable War is must reading for anyone interested in understanding one of the most significant challenges facing our world today.”
“An excellent, timely and much-needed book that should be read by all who are interested in global security.”
“This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex and fraught relationship between the US and China. Rudd offers an insightful, nuanced analysis of the dangers that could lead to a disastrous war between these two nuclear powers. He clearly lays out both sides’ positions, making it clear that there are no easy solutions.”