The Tragedy of Great Power Politics

Professor John Mearsheimer discussed his book, The Tragedy of Great Power Politics, published by W.W. Norton and Company. A proponent of the “realist” school of international politics, the author believes that in a world where no supreme international authority reigns above the nation state, great powers will pursue military and economic dominance. Professor Mearsheimer said that China and the U.S. will inevitably become adversaries as Chinese power and influence increase, and that the U.S. should impede China’s economic growth in order to check its military capability. After the presentation, John Ikenberry, Professor at Georgetown University, joined the discussion and the author answered questions from members of the audience. close