This really hits close to home—after 4-5 years in China/Chinese Studies circles, I’ve seen more than a few students pivot to/fixate on Taiwan for all the wrong (mostly problematic) reasons... (Ironically I've wanted to write about this in the broader context of Western scholarship on East Asia)

(3/3) others have grown tired of chess game analogies and reductive takes. I know that many resonate with this sentiment but I increasingly feel that “but Taiwan has to” is not an answer I am content with. There’s a lot to unpack – perhaps I will finally start writing about it...

(2/3) The phrase “but Taiwan has to” is perhaps the most common response to (my) criticisms of Taiwan’s stances and decision-making. As a proud and vocal Taiwanese citizen, I’m increasingly conflicted about Taiwan and my Taiwanese identity. I’m not blind to the obvious, but I like many...