It was once known as the global rules-based order - now it could be better called Fight Club.

As the US throws punches wildly at smaller countries and China grabs the maritime territories of smaller neighbours to build military bases, the disregard for the traditional international order stunning.

This week on Please Explain, as conflict becomes the norm, are we heading for a resounding clash?

Host:

Tory Maguire, National editor, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age

Guests:

Peter Hartcher, International and Political Editor, The Sydney Morning Herald

Nick O'Malley, senior writer and former US correspondent, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age

Kirsty Needham, Beijing correspondent, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age