This volume surveys Western relations with, and attitudes towards, China since sustained contact and desirable trading began with the great alternative culture in the 16th century. The experiences of traders, diplomats and missionaries are surveyed and illustrated by frequent quotations from contemporary sources. In addition the book explores the flow of cultural influences in both directions, and changes in Western opinion about China from admired model, to disdained land of the eternal standstill , to feared resurgent power. Finally, the author examines current issues in dispute such as Taiwan and human rights.