Incomplete information, uncertainty and interactive gaming in regionalism

Comments on Anthony Milner “From Asia-Pacific to Asia?” 3/06/2010, http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2010/06/03/from-asia-pacific-to-asia/

It seems the issues are not as clear cut as one might assume they are.

I am a layman to foreign affairs, regionalism and regional construct.

From a layman's perspective, the issues may be characterised by incomplete information, uncertainty, rational, evolving and dynamic interactions of players especially the more significant players.

There can be many types of uncertainties, such as the changes in both expectations and real relative weights between players and their reactions, as well as the ability of each player in terms of planning and execution of what may be perceived the correct course.

People have to make choices in that environment and different choice may lead to a different outcome.

The reality is that even the best and simple concept may not necessarily lead to the best outcome through a complex process.

The current debate on mining taxes in Australian may serve as a reminder. Most people may accept that a profit based royalty regime may be better than a sales-based regime. But is the Australian government's RSPT the best implementation or scheme for a profit based royalty? The debate has been very furious and little indication is in sight for a satisfactory resolution, yet.

During the debate, there was a statement in support of the proposed tax by 20 leading Australian economists. On the other hand there was also an article by another equally leading Australian economist pointing out problems with this particular mining tax proposal.

No wonder the public has been totally confused.

That very debate has serious implications for the issues of this post, no matter whether it is due to possible faulty design in the whole or part of the current proposal or poor consultation and communication on the government’s part, or both.