The Sino-Soviet Issue: War by 1990.

The study examines whether or not there is a reasonable probability that the Soviet Union and China will be at war between now and 1990--whether the current Sino-Soviet rift will deepen into conflict. After a brief historical overview, the national interests of each country are explored. They indicate a continued hostile relationship for the foreseeable future, barring major changes in the national interests. Four variables are introduced and considered in detail the problem of succession, particularly in China after Maos death the increasing size of each countrys nuclear arsenal the border dispute, its background and significance and the probable direction which the balance of power in the Asian area will take. Modified author abstract