[Torie]

That is the "liberal" view which Mearsheimer totally rejects. I tend to agree with you, provided a democratic culture is in place. Wealth (and a huge GNP) alone does not create pragmatic "pacificness." Will China emerge over time as a hegemonic contender as a fascist state (which it largely is now), or a democratic state with democratic values? That is to me that more compelling question. I might have departed this mortal coil before we know for sure. This puppy is about 30 years out from being truly tested.

[yankeedame]

Will China emerge over time as a hegemonic contender as a fascist state (which it largely is now), or a democratic state with democratic values?

History, streching back to the twilight years of the Shang Dynasty (c. 1766 B.C.), holds no promise of this. This is why I am always both amazed and dishearten by those who expect a democratic state to suddenly burst forth in China, fully formed like Athena from the skull of Zeus.