Is the USA the Only Role Model in Town? Empirical Evidence from the Asian Barometer Survey

Based on the fourth wave of the Asian Barometer Survey, I examine the contours and determinants of East Asians’ role model choices. The results show that pro-authoritarianism rule, recognition of China’s regional hegemon status, perception of China’s soft-power image, admiration for good governance, or inward-looking nationalism make East Asians more likely to choose an alternative role model rather than the USA. If the USA should loom out of East Asians’ vision for their country role model, the alternative role models would carry consequences in a potential shift in the democratic regime paradigm and a possible change in the political landscape in East Asia.