Invitation to the 19th Lecture of IAS: The “Agent-Structure Problem” in International Relations Studies and China-U.S. Strategic Competition: The Case of Trump 1.0 and 2.0
Dear All,
You are cordially invited to the 19th Lecture of the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS). Please find the event details below:
Topic: The "Agent-Structure Problem" in International Relations Studies and China-U.S. Strategic Competition: The Case of Trump 1.0 and 2.0
Speaker: Professor Weixing Hu
Date: 24 April 2026 (Friday)
Time: 15:00-16:00
Venue: CC126
Language: Chinese & English
Speaker Introduction:
Weixing Hu is UM Development Foundation Distinguished Professor and Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Macau. Before joining University of Macau, he was Professor and Head of Department of Politics and Public Administration at University of Hong Kong. He is an international relations expert, with research expertise on changing world order and Asian international relations.
Abstract:
The "agent-structure problem" in international relations studies is a long-standing point of contention. "Agent" typically refers to states, leaders, or other actors, while "structure" generally refers to the international system, norms, institutions, distribution of power and anarchy. The main question raised by the agent-structure debate is: whether it is the "structure" shaping the direction and outcome of international politics, or it is the choices of agents causing the results? How do the two interact and shape each other? The current Sino-US relationship is a typical example of great power competition, determined by structural factors such as the power transition theory and the Thucydides Trap indicates. We will showcase the role of "agents" in China-U.S. relations, by comparing Trump 1.0 and 2.0 policy to see how a leader's personal preferences, ideology, political considerations, and domestic politics can significantly alter the intensity, form, and direction of great power competition.
We look forward to your presence at this lecture.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ms. Lily Yang (3677014 / ias@bnbu.edu.cn).
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Best Regards,
Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU)
Institute for Advanced Study
Tel：3677014