This book is written by American scientist Graham Allison. He raised a valid question via his book that “Can America and China Escape Thucydides’ Trap?”

Here, firstly it is crucial to understand the term ‘Thucydides’ Trap’ and its historical roots. Thucydides was a Greek historian who took the example of ‘Peloponnesian War. That war was fought between two powerful city-states of ancient states: Athens and Sparta, along with their respective alliances. However, the war was a long and destructive struggle for power, influence, and dominance in Greek world. Consequently, the concept of ‘Thucydides’ Trap’ originated.

According to the book ‘Destined for War’, when an emerging power influences the powerful and dominant position of the established power, the conflict is inevitable, this is called ‘Thucydides’ Trap’. Author describes the role of rising powers in causing conflicts with the established powers.

Currently, USA and China have list of various conflicts, starting from trade, economy, technology, medicine to military capabilities and space exploration. China is challenging the existing world order of Global North by establishing financial institution like Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to compete with World Bank (WB) and International Monetary Bank (IMF).

In addition, China is leading in the advancements of military capabilities, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and in space technology.

Moreover, China has lifted its half a billion population out of poverty. Therefore, it can be said that China is a rising power. While, United States (US) owns current global order, leading the entire world politically and economically. She is super-hero in military alliances such as North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and is a top exporter of internet and green technology.

Additionally, USA is active member in Group-7, which is a group of seven developed countries. Therefore, USA is termed as an established power.

Thucydides’ trap revolves around them. The author predicted a conflict or war between them. Therefore, a conflict or war is inevitable between rising power like China and established power like USA.

The author in this book, ‘Destined for War’ pointed out sixteen cases as historical examples in which Thucydides’ trap occurred. Furthermore, there were twelve wars after that trap. Most recent were two, firstly, rise of German Empire, challenged the traditional dominance of Britain that led to the devastating World War-I (1914-1918). Secondly, rise of Japan, confronted with superpower USA that led to World War II (1939-1945).

Author emphasizes the notion that growing power and influence of China are fabricating the potential challenges for dominancy. Therefore, this sensation needs special fathom.

Nonetheless, author specifies warnings and policy implications to the world regarding potential dangers of power transition between USA and China. At the end, author suggests there is a need for both nations to be aware of historical incidents and to take special steps to avoid a destructive conflict.