Rivalry in the Pacific: Realist Insights into U.S.-China Geopolitical Contest

The research investigates the escalating geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China in the Pacific region through the lens of realist theory in international relations. As China rises to challenge U.S. dominance in the Pacific, the two powers engage in strategic competition over military posturing, economic influence, and diplomatic alliances. The study applies classical and structural realist perspectives to examine key areas such as the South China Sea, Taiwan, and regional alliances like AUKUS and the Quad. The paper explores potential future scenarios for the U.S.-China rivalry, including the implications for regional stability, economic interdependence, and the risk of conflict. This research contributes to understanding how power politics and the balance of power shape contemporary U.S.-China relations and their impact on regional and global security.