Excellent essay. I make a similar point in a recent book, arguing that China's position as the "solid center" of East Asia, based on central presence, more than half of the region's population, and production of trade goods such as tea, silk, and "china," can be contrasted to the "liquid centers" of the West, the Mediterranean and later the Atlantic around and through which circulated competitive and expansionist empires. China wanted a quiet perimeter; the West pursued profitable frontiers.
Excellent essay. I make a similar point in a recent book, arguing that China's position as the "solid center" of East Asia, based on central presence, more than half of the region's population, and production of trade goods such as tea, silk, and "china," can be contrasted to the "liquid centers" of the West, the Mediterranean and later the Atlantic around and through which circulated competitive and expansionist empires. China wanted a quiet perimeter; the West pursued profitable frontiers.
I loved Out of the Gobi. This article makes a lot of sense.
Thank you. Clarity overcomes bullshit, hopefully every time.