The volume argues that far from seeking to pursue more peaceful international relations after the Cold War (1945-1989), as has been commonly supposed, the U.S. mapped a path to ensure that the political primacy it enjoyed in international relations for about the first fifteen years after World War II would never again be challenged by any country.
Currently, China is perceived as a potential challenge to this sought-after primacy. Therefore, every effort is being made by the U.S., including preparations for going to war if deemed "necessary," to prevent China from posing such a challenge. Despite the emerging global sentiment against war, Washington has been explaining its planning in terms of being a victim of alleged worldwide aggression by China, utilizing various issues to support its allegation.
Among the more formidable sets of allegations is that found in the book "Destined for War" by Graham Allison. In it, he contends that there is a historical pattern within which both China and the U.S. are "trapped," and they are unlikely to escape. Thus, Washington should prepare for war. "War Between the United States and China" refutes most of these allegations, as well as the claimed trap, and it offers suggestions on how war between these two great countries can be avoided.