Knowledge = Power Lee Kuan Yew - The Grand Master’s Insights on China, United States, and the World - Graham Allison
12 snips
Mar 29, 2021 
Lee Kuan Yew, founding father of modern Singapore and former prime minister, shares his insights on China's future, the United States' position as a superpower, India's rise, Islamic terrorism, and more. He provides unvarnished opinions on multiculturalism, the welfare state, education, and the free market. Lee emphasizes the importance of practical solutions, historical knowledge, and determined leadership for societal transformation. He explores the impact of stagnation on strategic thinking and leadership, as well as China's ambitions and challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
China’s Ambition For Global Primacy
- China aspires to be the world’s preeminent power and seeks parity with the U.S. rather than honorary Western membership.
- That national aspiration is driven by a reawakened sense of destiny and 4,000 years of historical identity.
China’s Long Game: Growth, Not War
- China’s strategy is economic catch-up: educate talent, industrialize, and avoid direct military confrontation with the U.S.
- Beijing aims for decades of peace to modernize while building asymmetrical deterrence rather than head-on armaments races.
Use Trade To Anchor Regional Influence
- The U.S. should have forged closer economic ties with Southeast Asia decades ago to counter China's pull.
- Pursue free trade agreements early to bind regional economies to the U.S. marketplace.