Decoding Geopolitics Podcast with Dominik Presl #60 Sarah C.M. Paine: How Superpowers Self-Destruct: Russian, Chinese & American Grand Strategy
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Apr 23, 2025 
In this dialogue, Professor Sarah C.M. Paine, an expert in grand strategy and the dynamics of power, sheds light on how superpowers often self-sabotage. She discusses the misconceptions and strategic blunders made by Russia, China, and the U.S., emphasizing the challenges democracies face in coherent policy-making. The conversation also explores the shifting geopolitical landscape, the historical context of warfare decisions, and China's evolving grand strategy, questioning the feasibility of coexistence with U.S. norms. A thought-provoking analysis for anyone intrigued by global dynamics.
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Chaos Enables Democratic Strategy
- Grand strategy integrates all national power to achieve goals, beyond tactical warfare aspects.
- Democracies' chaos in debate can improve strategy via elections unlike autocracies doubling down blindly.
Complexity Strengthens Western Coalitions
- Western alliance decision-making looks chaotic but is highly efficient for 32 diverse countries.
- This deliberation reflects many expert views, serving as a strength unlike autocratic quick moves.
We Live in Cold War Two
- Cold War ended 1991, ushering a productive interwar peace reducing proxy wars globally.
- Since 2012, Cold War II began with Putin and Xi doubling down on conflict and territorial ambitions.