The Intelligence from The Economist
Rocketing science: China’s newest superpower
Jun 24, 2024
Ainsley Johnston, a data journalist and science correspondent, joins Lane Green, The Economist's Spain correspondent, to discuss China's rapid rise as a superpower in scientific research. They explore the opportunities and risks for the West in light of China's advancements in physical sciences. Additionally, Johnston reveals the secrets behind Mediterranean longevity, focusing on cultural and dietary influences. The conversation also touches on the rare simultaneous emergence of cicadas, shedding light on their fascinating life cycles and the implications of climate change on these natural phenomena.
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Quick takeaways
- China's rise as a scientific superpower was fueled by significant financial investments since 2000, boosting research capabilities.
- Concerns arise regarding the credibility of Chinese studies due to issues like citation cartels and potential security risks.
Deep dives
China's Rise as a Science Superpower
China has significantly expanded its science production over the years, challenging the traditional dominance of Europe, America, and Japan. While excelling in physical and applied sciences, China still lags behind in fields like medical science and basic research. Despite producing numerous high-quality papers, the average impact of Chinese papers remains lower than those from America. China's substantial investments in research, cutting-edge technology, and talent have propelled its rapid ascendancy as a scientific superpower.
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