The Higherside Chats

Professor Jiang Xueqin | Predictive History, Western Collapse, & The Ivy League Issue

Oct 7, 2025
In this conversation, Professor Jiang Xueqin, a Beijing-based history teacher and viral educator, explores his concept of Predictive History. He argues that the U.S. is a declining empire, drawing parallels to ancient Rome, while predicting authoritarianism, economic collapse, and civil conflict as signs of trouble ahead. Jiang discusses how geopolitical motives shape U.S. foreign policy, influenced by religious groups, and critiques the Ivy League's role in perpetuating inequality. He advocates for education reform and emphasizes the importance of love and purpose in navigating future challenges.
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ANECDOTE

How A Superchat Sparked The Interview

  • Jiang recounts a synchronicity where a superchat mention led to Greg contacting him.
  • That coincidence convinced him the interview was meant to happen.
INSIGHT

Predictive History As A Scientific Test

  • Predictive history tests historical models by making forward predictions and refining them from results.
  • Jiang uses this to validate frameworks linking past patterns to future outcomes.
INSIGHT

Civilization Lifecycle Drives Policy

  • Empires follow lifecycle stages: openness, bureaucracy, then authoritarianism during decline.
  • Jiang argues the U.S. is in an erratic, violent decline consistent with historical empires.
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