Choosing Sides

I know I am wasting time. Here it is anyway.

In his post at TruthDig, "The War Between Civilizations That Never Was," William Pfaff noted:

"(The Chinese are now on the side of the United States, where much of their fortune is tied up.)"

I won't comment on Pfaff's main topic involving Professor Samuel Huntington's odd notions about the clash of civilizations. That's time to waste another day.

As to Pfaff's aside, we must constantly keep in mind that every country in the history of the human race has only been on one side, its own. Any ruling class in any country would be rightfully subject to violent revolt if they made any decision against the country’s interest, allies be damned.

If China were on “our side” it would put more pressure on North Korea, with which it trades profitably in armaments. China also wants to be dominant in its region and not increase America’s influence there.

No country does anything that is not in its interest unless it is forced by a stronger country. We constantly forget this primary rule of international affairs.

The bonds that tie nations are among the most ephemeral alliances.