Strategic Ambiguity vs. Strategic Clarity: The Defense of Taiwan

Abstract

The United States has long endorsed strategic ambiguity to deter Taiwan from declaring its independence and China from taking Taiwan by force. The United States sells defensive weapons to Taiwan but does not commit to its’ defense. Now there is debate as to whether strategic ambiguity should be replaced by an explicit commitment to defend Taiwan. This paper assesses the arguments in this debate, their appeal to different audiences, and ability to deter conflict.