From Cold War science diplomacy to partnering in a networked world: 30 years of Sino‐US relations in science and technology

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the history, current activities, and prospects of Sino‐US cooperation in science and technology (S&T). It seeks to understand the role of S&T in Sino‐US relations, how the relationship has affected Chinese scientific development and, more generally, to better understand the ways S&T affect – and are affected by – the foreign policies of nation states.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing an institutional perspective, the paper is based on interviews in China and the USA and reviews of government documents and press reports.

Findings

Owing to the impacts of the Cultural Revolution on Chinese S&T, the relationship is highly asymmetrical when it began in the late 1970s. As Chinese capabilities have improved, aided measurably by the relationship with the USA, the two sides are now in a position to cooperate more fully across a wide range of areas of interest to both sides. Channels for cooperation have been developed through the two governments, through Chinese and US corporations and through academic institutions in the two countries. Together, these allow for collaborative activities in basic science, commercial research and development, and in S&T in support of public goods.

Originality/value

The Sino‐US relationship in S&T has become more important to the two countries as they face an array of daunting challenges of energy, public health, basic research, and new industrial technologies. Yet, the relationship has not been extensively studied in spite of its growing importance. This paper attempts to help overcome this neglect. A better understanding of the relationship will contribute to improved understandings of Sino‐US relations more generally, and to the ways in which S&T fit into the foreign relations of major powers.

Citation

Suttmeier, R.P. (2010), "From Cold War science diplomacy to partnering in a networked world: 30 years of Sino‐US relations in science and technology", Journal of Science and Technology Policy in China, Vol. 1 No. 1, pp. 18-28. https://doi.org/10.1108/17585521011032522