Abstract

Edited with authority by the influential and respected Stephen Chan, this unique collection of essays gathers together for the first time both African and Chinese perspectives on China's place in Africa. The book starts with an excellent introductory essay from Stephen Chan, written in his usual elegant prose and featuring some very fresh insights organised with great clarity. Featuring useful historical context, this brave book analyses the "moral" aspects of the policies and ensuing migration. The book completely undermines existing assumptions concerning Sino-African relations, such as that Africa is of critical importance for China; that China sees no risk in its largesse towards Africa; and that there is a single Chinese profile/agenda. The resulting collection touches the issue of racism but is equally about moments of pure idealism and 'romance' in Sino-African history.
Stephen Chan OBE is Professor of International Relations at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, and was a member of the Trilateral Dialogue on China, Africa, and the United States. www.stephen-chan.com
'Is China moral in Africa? Stephen Chan's richly nuanced new book answers this question through his own burnished prose and by drawing together an exceptional group of Chinese and African co-authors. Chan leads them - and us - deftly across a map layered with shared history, legends, and the clash of cultures.' Deborah Brautigam, Professor and Director, International Development Program, Johns Hopkins University/SAIS. 'Stephen Chan provide a look at what drives Beijing's policy in Africa through this refreshing collection of contributions by non-Western scholars. This is a well-edited, crisp compilation of essays that provides a welcome contrast to the flood of Western academic writings on China in Africa over the last decade.' Alex Vines OBE, Research Director, Area Studies and International Law, Chatham House