A worsening relationship is probably unavoidable if the two countries adhere to their current domestic choices. If they want better ties, both need to make adjustments, but that seems unlikely.

If financial sanctions are the next battlefield for China and the United States, the pain may be worse than tariffs.

Cutting ties would undoubtedly hurt both countries. But when wishful policies collide with the iron laws of economics, the latter are certain to prevail.

A broad perspective and reference to history is required to properly understand and respond to the recent difficulties. There is reason to keep a positive attitude.

This doesn’t mean soft appeasement or concession. Outreach is conducive to the development of stable relations and serves China’s own long-term national interests.

He Yafei, a leading scholar of American studies in China, spoke with China-US Focus host James Chau in Hong Kong on Nov. 15. The following transcript has been lightly edited for clarity.

The more China and the US are coupled, the more insecure they feel. Some sort of split seems inevitable.

Some wrestling may be needed before they can seriously look at decoupling.

War often begins with security frictions. Taiwan and the South China Sea are powder kegs.

Although many societies aspire to provide equal opportunities for everyone, that is easier said than done. People born into different economic and social statuses have unequal educational or financial starting points. This often leads to very different career and life opportunities.