As a student of history, one learns that relations between centres of power are not only about physics, but also psychology. Observing the output of various Chinese commentators, the key risk clearly emerges: that of a nation so intoxicated by its own power, by its own narrative of civilizational destiny, that it fails to perceive how its actions produce reactions that ultimately undermine its own interests.
It's possible that China could humiliate India in this latest flare-up, whether on the battlefield or in the diplomatic arena. But it would be far from sensible to do so. Looking to the long-term, the challenge posed by Indian power to Chinese interests may ultimately dwarf that of all other nations, including the United States. A superpower with a grudge, consumed by wounded pride, makes for an unwise adversary in a world that will, in any case, present China with its fair share of challenges.
Ironically, this is a variation on the same conversation one has with American hyper-nationalists who wish to see China put back in its box. It is very likely that, even today, American might could dismantle China's military inventory and supporting infrastructure from top to bottom, achieving a total (if undoubtedly costly) victory. But the question remains, as it always has: and then what? China, like India, will remain in this world and will only grow stronger over time. Kicking the can down the road another decade at the cost of nurturing a hatred that will burn across generations is, in fact, no solution at all.
So one says to American hotheads. And Chinese ones as well.
