China, the United States and 21st-Century Sea Power Selected for Proceedings’ “Notable Naval Books of 2010”
Lt. Cdr. Thomas J. Cutler, USN (Ret.), “Notable Naval Books of 2010,” U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings 137:5 (May 2011): 64-69.
As in previous years, the list of notable naval books for 2010 was compiled, refined, and ultimately decided by a number of people, all of whom are widely recognized for their knowledge of matters pertaining to the sea services. Because the list is subjective and consequently may cause some disagreement, these individuals remain anonymous. Their contributions, however, are hereby recognized and most appreciated.
The list again includes only those books published in the previous calendar year and is restricted to a maximum of 20. The basic criterion for selection is that the book must contribute to the edification of naval professionals in some meaningful way. In many cases these books expand our knowledge of a certain subject; in others they serve to stimulate discussion and debate; and occasionally one comes along that inspires or adds to our basic understanding of who and what we are. …
Because inclusion on the list is considered by many to be a prestigious accolade, and because coming up with only 20 from the many fine books published in 2010 is difficult and subjective enough without trying further to rank them in some manner, the editors again list the books in alphabetical order, by title, to avoid any perceptions of hierarchical ranking or favoritism. Selecting the better and the best from this list will be left to the individual reader. …
China, the United States and 21st-Century Sea Power: Defining a Maritime Security Partnership edited by Andrew S. Erickson, Lyle J. Goldstein, and Nan Li (Naval Institute Press)
Since 2006 the Naval Institute has collaborated with the Naval War College’s China Maritime Studies Institute to produce a valuable source library on the current rise of China in which experts in the field might compare their ideas on this potentially vital element of U.S. foreign and defense policy. An important series for those who would better understand China’s new geopolitical role, it is a tangible example of the symbiosis between these two iconic organizations, which concurrently serve the Sea Services and the nation. The present volume, the fourth in the series, explores the possibilities of integrating a stronger China into a global maritime security partnership that—despite the obstacles—would ultimately benefit not only the parties involved but potentially have positive repercussions in other areas of concern. The essays, written by experts on both sides of the Pacific, present varied views typical of the spirit of academic freedom that prevails at the Naval War College (despite its governmental sponsorship) and serves as the bedrock of the Naval Institute’s long-respected open forum. …
