Constructivism in Action: The US-China Trade War Explained

One real-life example that demonstrates how constructivism affects the global political economy is the case of the United States-China trade relationship. In recent years, the constructivist perspective has played a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of this economic partnership.

From a constructivist standpoint, both countries' beliefs, norms, and shared understandings have influenced their interactions and trade policies. For instance, the United States has increasingly expressed concerns about China's trade practices, such as intellectual property theft and unfair subsidies to domestic industries. These concerns reflect the American belief in free and fair trade, which is deeply ingrained in their economic and political culture.

On the other hand, China's constructivist approach is rooted in its aspiration to become a global economic power. Chinese policymakers emphasize the importance of economic growth and development, often prioritizing state-led industrial policies. This reflects their belief in the necessity of government intervention to ensure economic stability and social cohesion.

These contrasting beliefs and norms have led to tensions and disagreements between the two countries, resulting in trade disputes and the imposition of tariffs. This example illustrates how constructivism influences the global political economy by shaping the behavior of states and their economic interactions based on their respective beliefs and norms.