Publication Date

1978

Document Type

Article

Abstract

In 1978, the Carter Administration, in its efforts to normalize diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, was faced with a dilemma. The PRC demanded that the U.S. agree to three terms for normalization: 1) break diplomatic ties with the Republic of China (Taiwan); 2) abrogate the 1954 security treaty with Taiwan; and 3) withdraw military forces from the island. Although public opinion and expert opinion both favored normalization with the PRC, but also both favored – by larger margins – the continued support of Taiwan. This article looks at the status of public opinion at the time, and discusses the role that public and expert opinion should play in the administration’s consideration of the PRC’s demands. Finally, the article discusses what the consequences of going against public opinion might be.

Publication Title

Occasional Papers/Reprints Series in Contemporary Asian Studies

Volume

13

Issue

2

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