Analyzing Sino-Australian relations through a realist and liberal perspective provides insight into the underlying tensions and possible future outcomes of the relationship between these two nations. Let's first examine relationships through a realist lens. Realists place emphasis on the state as the main actor. Considering this, realism would perhaps say that the relationship between Australia and China arises primarily from the actions of individual states rather than external influence. China needed resources and Australia needed capital. It was Australia's individual decision to enter into trade relations with China and vice versa. It can also be noted, however, that Australia wishes to take relations no further than a simple commercial relationship, as can be deduced from the sentence “Rudd, while embracing Chinese trade, has moved to balance relations with Beijing by strengthening military ties and diplomats with Australia’s long-time superpower ally, the United States.” This also points to the realistic perspective that human nature has a dark side and that we should be wary of those we “deal with.” Realists also point out that China's interest in Australia stems from a desire for greater power. The Chinese “essentially want to maximize their ability to get what they want” from a realist perspective. Resources are just one way China seeks to use Australians. This perspective would most likely state that the Chinese would seek to exert their power over their new hold on the Australians' economy. As it stands, they are already Australia's number one trading partner, have pumped $40 billion into the Australian economy in the last six months alone, and purchase more than 300 million tonnes of ore per year and large quantities of paper. .....human nature and it is better to be prepared for such outcomes that the dark side of human nature usually entails. Both the realist and liberal perspectives make excellent arguments about what the course of action should be in terms of Australian politics. relationship with China. Overall, the realist perspective appeals to me more for its logic and the security it provides for Australia. My example of a liberal method for containing Chinese influence offers an interesting alternative. However, I do not believe that it would be enough to limit Chinese influence due to its weakness of authority. Australia must implement methods that demonstrate it is in control of its nation rather than China. This requires baring its teeth (strengthening its military and foreign ties) and avoiding engaging in foreign policy with China beyond trade issues..