Great Decisions 2025

Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs.  This program series highlights eight critical foreign policy challenges facing Americans each year. Supported by the Foreign Policy Association for over 50 years, Great Decisions involves citizens in the foreign policy making process. In this monthly discussion, participants read the relevant chapter in the briefing book, which is available for checkout. A moderator leads the discussion series based on the readings and shows a topic related video.

Chapter 3: U.S.-China Relations by Thomas J. Christensen

Washington’s relations with Beijing have reached an ominous low ebb. Both American political parties have identified China as the country’s preeminent geopolitical challenger and, in the eyes of many, a systemic threat. What is driving this deterioration of Sino-American relations, and what are America’s strategic options in the face of Chinese power and ambition?