ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on foreign policies toward Taiwan. It applies the world systems perspective proposed by Immanuel Wallerstein to modern Taiwan. The book also explores three possible roles that Japan might play in the cross-strait conflict. First, Japan would pass the buck, staying out of the conflict as much as possible. Second, Japan would balance against China, throwing its weight behind Washington. Finally, Japan would seek to play peacemaker, seeking to prevent such a conflict and to promote peace in the region. The book then highlights the importance of Russia in geographical, economic, and military terms. It also examines how international structures have shaped the two Koreas' policies toward Taiwan, elaborates on the factors that contribute to their influence in cross-strait relations, and analyzes the options a united Korea would face in the event of a cross-strait conflict.
