Constructing a regional order Northeast Asia and the systemic constraints on Korean unification

Download
Author
Vance, Terence J.
Date
2006-12Advisor
Twomey, Christopher P.
Second Reader
Olsen, Edward A.
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Nowhere has the mid-20th century polarization of Northeast Asia been more evident than on the Korean Peninsula. Over the past six decades, efforts toward Korean unification have spanned the range of total warfare, covert attacks, propagandist affronts, and formal diplomacy to no avail. Amidst the talk of unification however, it seens a better understanding about the evolving nature of Korea's division is needed. Using a truly unique International Relations approach, this thesis explores the utility of Alexander Wendt's Social Theory of International Politics to address the evolving structure of Northeast Asia and its implications for Korean unification. The results of this analysis contrast with those of predominant IR theories such as Neorealism and suggest that unification is becoming less likely under structural trends. Additionally, the constructivist methodology employed here shows that while the United States will continue to play an important role in regional security, it must begin to diverge from its anachronistic Cold War defense posture to ensure future stability. By providing a deeper understanding about the macro-level structure of Northeast Asia, this these will contribute to the development of policies which will both enhance regional stability and aid in the eventual unification of the two Koreas.
Collections
Related items
Showing items related by title, author, creator and subject.
-
Korean unification and United States security alternatives in Northeast Asia
Hasell, Edward L. (Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School, 1993-06);The end of the Cold War has removed the external restraints placed on the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea that in the past have proved to be a barrier to unification of the two states on the ... -
The proactive grand strategy for consensual and peaceful Korean unification
Kim, Jungsoo (Monterey California. Naval Postgraduate School, 2007-03);This thesis assesses the reasons for the continuous division of the two Koreas and proposes necessary policies for Korean unification. In modern times, Koreans have been unable to determine their own destiny. Many examples ... -
The future of the ROK-US alliance in the context of Korean unification
Kim, Ki-Joo (Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School, 2000-12);After the Korean War, the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States signed a Mutual Defense Treaty on October 1, 1953. There were many conflicts and challenges between the ROK and the United States in keeping the ...