Kaiser Kuo, host of the long-running Sinica podcast, joins us in Zurich to discuss the evolving narrative on China, and why the West is so often 'stunned' by Chinese breakthroughs in electric vehicles, green technology, or, most recently: AI, with DeepSeek.
We explore the reasons behind the challenges of reporting on China, the importance of strategic empathy, and the shifting dynamics of global influence, particularly in relation to American exceptionalism.

Recommendations mentioned at the end of the episode:

• Chartbook, by Adam Tooze
• Pekingnology and The East is Read, by Zichen Wang
• Interconnected, by Kevin Xu
• Baiguan, by Robert Wu
• Chinese Cooking Demystified
• Playground, by Richard Powers
• Dal recipe

Stay up-to-date on all events and activities at Asia Society Switzerland: subscribe to the newsletter and support our work by becoming a member.

-
STATE OF ASIA is a podcast from Asia Society Switzerland. 
Season 8, episode 5 - Published: February 4, 2025
Hosts: Nico Luchsinger and Remko Tanis, Asia Society Switzerland
Editor: Remko Tanis, Programs and Editorial Manager, Asia Society Switzerland