The world under pressure : how China and India are influencing the global economy and environment / Carl J. Dahlman.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 275-290) and index.

Rising powers -- Insights from history of power shifts and growing interdependence -- Understanding the rapid rise of China and India -- Positive growth prospects for China and India -- Growing economic and geopolitical impact -- Environmental and natural resource impact -- Power shifts and rising frictions have implications for the global system and the United States -- How will the world adjust to the swift ascent of China and India?

The rapid rise of China and India is reshaping our global economic and environmental systems—raising major issues of stability, governance, and sustainability. This book develops a framework that shows the interdependence between economic size, trade, finance, technology, environment, security, and global governance. The book uses this framework to provide data on the speed of global power shifts and to trace the implications for nations worldwide. Analyzing this critical moment in historical context, it offers insights into our most pressing concerns. Specifically, China and India's unchecked growth has the potential to ignite trade, resource, cold, and conventional wars. Moreover, these nations could set in motion monumental challenges related to climate change. The text warns that the current international governance system is not up to the challenges of defusing these frictions. Major powers, including China and India, must do more to address the gathering storm. Developing sustainable economic and social relationships will be a most difficult charge, but the cost of putting off reforms will be lower global welfare. The book concludes with starting points for change.