Abstract
Complex Interdependence – The US and China in the South China SeaThis thesis will examine what degree of interdependence exists between The US and China, and provide measures to stabilize the conflict in the South China Sea based on analysis using Keohane and Nye’s theory on Complex Interdependence. This thesis assumes that the Chinese economic and military power is increasing, and are currently threatening the sovereignty of the United States which, potentially, could lead to armed conflicts or war. I will use the conflict in the South China Sea as a case study and focus my research on the time-period of this on-going event.I will test the level of interdependence between the two countries using the three characteristics described by Keohane and Nye:• Multiple channels• Absence of hierarchy among issues• Minor role of military forcesOnce I have estimated the degree of interdependence I will discuss how the political processes affect a crisis and how international institutions can help contain the underlying issues and avoid escalating the crisis further.The conclusion is that there exists a significant degree of interdependence between the US and China, particularly because of their shared interest in trading with each other. However, the Chinese government has recently shown a keen interested in using its military for political purposes which can potentially affect areas such as the South China Sea. The research also shows how the pre-existence of international institutions has helped to contain the conflict and maintain cooperation in other political areas. In order for the US to increase its institutional power it has to consider ratifying the UNCLOS and continue cooperation with China in areas of mutual interest.