By: Tom Raquer
“East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet.” — Rudyard Kipling
This famous line captures Eastern and Western societies’ cultural and philosophical chasm. Understanding this dynamic is essential as we navigate U.S. foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific, through Elbridge A. Colby’s flawed lens in The Strategy of Denial (Colby, 2021). This article challenges the conventional wisdom that has misled us. It advocates for a shift in focus. We should focus on domestic welfare and foster genuine partnerships over adversarial postures.
### Summary
The introduction highlights cultural differences affecting U.S. foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific. It presents the main argument against Colby’s Strategy of Denial.
## Abstract
This article critiques Colby’s Strategy of Denial, highlighting its implications for U.S. foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific. It argues that rigid containment strategies against China stem from a simplistic Western worldview that oversimplifies the region’s complexities. Such approaches risk escalating tensions and distract from pressing domestic issues. Instead, the article advocates for a stabilization coalition centered around ASEAN and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF),the Defense Ministers Forum. It promotes dialogue, economic interdependence, and respect for regional autonomy. We must tackle domestic vulnerabilities while thoughtfully engaging with the Indo-Pacific’s geopolitical landscape. Ultimately, this piece calls for a shift from militaristic strategies. It emphasizes policies prioritizing the well-being of American citizens. Additionally, it encourages fostering cooperation in an increasingly multipolar world.
### Summary
The abstract outlines the article’s argument for moving from rigid containment strategies to more collaborative approaches in the Indo-Pacific.
## Introduction
Dear Essential American Citizen,
Our republic empowers citizens to influence foreign and domestic policy through elected representatives. For too long, our voices have been stifled. This is especially true on military engagements in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria, and the ongoing proxy war in Ukraine. We instigated this engagement.
We face an outdated foreign policy looking to keep global primacy by denying China its rightful place in the Indo-Pacific. Colby’s The Strategy of Denial proposes an anti-hegemonic coalition. This coalition aims to hold China and thwart its supposed ambitions. It particularly focuses on Taiwan (Colby, 2021). This vision ignores many challenges China and the U.S. face in achieving hegemonic status.
In evaluating Colby’s proposal, we must ask: Does this strategy serve American interests? Does it align with our Republic’s principles? Are elite ambitions driving Colby’s plan, or does it show the will of the American people?
A republic should be a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Why does Colby’s proposal seem to work under a different
ethos? Have Americans assessed or approved policies prioritizing global primacy over domestic concerns?
To evaluate Colby’s proposal effectively, we must recognize that the primary purpose of U.S. foreign policy is defending national interests and enhancing domestic welfare. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the power to “supply for the common defense.” National security adviser Jeane Kirkpatrick astutely noted this observation. This power does not extend to missions that distract us from core responsibilities (Kirkpatrick, 1989).
We can’t divert resources to sustain foreign ambitions. Our foreign policy must focus on the values and needs of American citizens. Kirkpatrick asserted that national security, sovereignty, and people’s well-being should precede international dealings.
Kirkpatrick also rejected the notion of a foreign policy elite believing their talents surpass those of the American citizen. She argued that foreign policy should not need insulation from populism. Doing so would undermine our republic. It would pave the way for oligarchy. She insisted that “experts who conduct foreign policy on our behalf must be subject to the direction and control of the People” (Kirkpatrick, 1989). Have we not seen foreign and defense policymakers prove incompetence over the last thirty years, evading accountability?
### Summary
The introduction proves the article’s critical stance on U.S. foreign policy. It focuses particularly on Colby’s Strategy of Denial. The article emphasizes the importance of prioritizing American citizens’ interests over elite ambitions.
## The Flaws of Colby’s Containment Strategy
Colby’s strategy assumes that the United States can effectively unite its allies against China’s rise. This perspective overlooks the reality that China is grappling with significant internal challenges and economic difficulties. Geopolitical analyst Michael Beckley emphasizes that China faces a geopolitical reversal. He raises the question: Why pursue an aggressive containment strategy based on the assumption of an overarching threat? The reality suggests the nation contends with its difficulties. (Beckley, 2023).
Warwick Powell is an adjunct professor at the Queensland University of Technology. He asserts, “The greatest challenge to Indo-Pacific regional stability and peace is the U.S.’s wish to pursue a strategy aimed at either resurrecting or maintaining U.S. primacy” (Powell, 2023). Aggressive posturing risks provoking conflict rather than fostering
cooperation. By framing China solely as an adversary, Colby undermines our regional standing and diverts attention from urgent domestic priorities.
Colby relies on a Western linear sequencing template. This exemplifies “wooden-headedness.” It is a viewpoint that evaluates situations based on preconceived notions rather than complexities. This rigidity disregards Eastern philosophical principles emphasizing balance and stability. The Indo-Pacific nations often seek stability that values harmony over confrontation. Forming an anti-hegemonic coalition against a like-minded China is misguided. It ignores regional priorities that lean toward cooperation and nonalignment. This stance invites unnecessary hostility. This approach contradicts Kipling’s insight: “East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet.”
Indonesia’s recent decision to join BRICS shows significant shifts in regional dynamics. Its declaration that it has no maritime disputes with China also illustrates these changes. This move underscores the futility of a U.S.-led containment strategy, as countries in the region focus on their interests over alignment with Western hegemony.
### Summary
This section critiques Colby’s containment strategy as unrealistic and overly simplistic. It highlights Indonesia’s recent actions as evidence of changing regional dynamics. These dynamics challenge the U.S. approach.
## A New Path Ahead: The Need for Stabilization
Recognizing China’s challenges—like economic decline and political instability—it is time to pivot our strategy. We should not confront a declining nation with aggression. Instead, we should focus on building an ASEAN and ARF stabilization coalition to foster cooperation throughout the Indo-Pacific. This strategy must emphasize respect and understanding rather than hostility.
By collaborating with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), the U.S. can aid—not lead—in developing a coalition that mitigates instability arising from China’s internal challenges. Instead of framing China solely as a threat, we should embrace opportunities for dialogue and partnership. By promoting economic interdependence and nurturing diplomatic relationships, the U.S. can play a constructive role in the Indo-Pacific while avoiding unnecessary conflicts. This approach does not negate the need to decouple from essential trade with China that threatens our independence.
### Summary
This section recommends shifting strategy to collaborate with ASEAN and the ARF. It emphasizes dialogue and economic interdependence to foster regional stability. This cooperation is crucial for regional peace.
## Understanding Domestic Vulnerabilities
We can’t overlook our nation’s urgent challenges as we explore foreign policy. The stark contrast between thriving urban economies and stagnation in rural communities reveals vulnerabilities within American society. Many feel neglected and marginalized as globalization progresses, leading to resentment toward a government prioritizing overseas conflicts over domestic welfare.
Consider this: our national debt has surpassed $33 trillion, while critical issues like education, healthcare, and infrastructure demand immediate attention. Why distribute resources to counter a faltering China? Addressing these urgent needs at home will yield more significant benefits for our citizens.
Kirkpatrick’s insights resonate powerfully. Our primary foreign policy focus should be protecting our citizens. We must tackle their immediate challenges instead of engaging in conflicts that yield little tangible gain (Kirkpatrick, 1989).
### Summary
This section underscores the urgent domestic challenges facing the U.S. and advocates for prioritizing national policy to tackle these issues over engaging in unnecessary conflicts abroad.
## The Importance of Engaging with the Indo-Pacific
An effective foreign policy must intertwine military readiness with diplomatic and economic partnerships. Colby’s assumptions about Southeast Asian nations aligning with U.S. interests against China overlook their preference for autonomy and regional stability.
Countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia often navigate their diplomatic paths instead of becoming ensnared in significant power conflicts. This requires a respectful approach that honors their historical relationships. Geopolitical analyst Parag Khanna emphasizes a global shift. “The world is moving from a unipolar world to a multipolar world.” This shift underscores the importance of U.S. engagement with diverse interests in the Indo-Pacific (Khanna, 2019).
### Summary
This section emphasizes the need for the U.S. to engage diplomatically with Southeast Asian nations, respecting their autonomy and fostering cooperative relationships instead of competition.
## Moving Beyond Military Responses
Colby neglects the potential for effective diplomatic engagement with China. The region’s complexity and multipolarity should not solely be presented as a threat; they offer opportunities for dialogue and partnership. Policymakers must recognize that economic interdependence often outweighs military confrontations. They should abandon narratives that frame China strictly as an adversary.
The actual threat from China lies within. Outgoing FBI Director Christopher Wray warned of Chinese cells operating in America. These cells are poised to attack our infrastructure. Is this not a blatant example of prioritizing foreign policy aspirations above our Republic’s needs?
Continued military posturing risks alienating potential allies in the region. ASEAN successfully employs economic integration to enhance regional stability, focusing on shared interests over conflict. They aim to create a unified market strengthening the region’s resilience against external pressures.
### Summary
This section advocates for transitioning from military responses to diplomatic engagement. It highlights the importance of economic interdependence. It also focuses on addressing domestic threats.
## Conclusion: A Call to Action
Colby’s Strategy of Denial misaligned with the historical realities of the Indo-Pacific region. As vigilant citizens, we must demand that our leaders focus on domestic resilience. They must also foster genuine partnerships grounded in respect and understanding.
The urgency for foreign policies acknowledging the complexities of the Indo-Pacific landscape can’t be overstated. By engaging through dialogue and diplomacy, we can secure a stable future for the region. We can also guarantee its prosperity while avoiding the pitfalls of militaristic strategies. These strategies often serve elite interests over those of the American people.
Now is the time to raise our voices and challenge the status quo. We should shape a foreign policy reflecting our values and priorities. Let us make sure that our government listens to our concerns. It should act in the best interests of all Americans, not just a select few.
### Summary
The conclusion reinforces the article’s main arguments, calling for a shift in U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes domestic issues and emphasizes dialogue and diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific.
### Sources
1. Colby, Elbridge A. The Strategy of Denial: American Defense in an Age of Great Power Conflict. Yale University Press, 2021.
2. Kirkpatrick, Jeane. “The Myth of the Foreign Policy Elite.” The New Republic, 1989.
3. Beckley, Michael. “The Rise of China: A Review of Current Strategies,” 2023.
4. Powell, Warwick. “The Challenge of U.S. Primacy.” Global Times, June 2023.
5. Mahbubani, Kishore. Has China Won? Public Affairs, 2020.
6. Khanna, Parag. The Future is Asian: Commerce, Conflict, and Culture in the 21st Century, 2019.
### About the Author
Tom Raquer is a retired U.S. Air Force Southeast Asia Foreign Area Officer. He has held long-term and short-term assignments in Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, and Timor-Leste. He was also assigned to USPACOM as a Southeast Asia Political-Military Affairs Officer for over seven years.
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