This book is an examination of domestic determinants of American policy that have complicated U.S. efforts to develop relations with China between 1972-1982, pointing to the compromises and contradictions in policy choices made by leaders who have differing conceptions of the goals of policy.

Preface -- 1 Dilemmas in Contemporary U.S. China Policy -- 2 China Policy During the Nixon and Ford Administrations -- 3 American Debate over China Policy on the Eve of U.S.-PRC Normalization -- 4 Congressional-Executive Friction over China Policy, 1978-1980 -- 5 Confiicting Assessments of Congressional and Administration Officials over China Policy -- 6 Debate over U.S. Military Sales to China, 1980-1981 -- 7 The Economic Factor in the Evolution of U.S. China Policy, 1971-1981 -- 8 Conclusion: Options for the United States -- Notes -- Index.