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ChinaTalk
Noah Smith: Trump 2.0's Impact on Asia + The New Tech Right
Jan 21, 2025
Noah Smith, an economist and columnist known for his insightful takes on the Japanese economy, joins the conversation during his visit to Taiwan. He discusses the ambitions of Silicon Valley’s pro-Trump faction and the potential for nuclear armament in Asia. The talk touches on China's economic woes and demographic challenges, questioning their true impact. Smith also proposes innovative solutions for Taiwan's economic development and highlights cultural nuances, like bubble tea, that make Taiwan unique.
01:09:48
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast discusses Taiwan's need to enhance its defense through arms manufacturing and tech advancements, rather than pursuing a nuclear option.
- Noah Smith highlights the evolving dynamics within Trump's political coalition, particularly the influence and limitations of Silicon Valley's tech leaders.
Deep dives
Taiwan's Strategic Defense and Nuclear Arms
The discussion emphasizes that Taiwan would have benefited greatly from developing its own nuclear weapons during the Cold War, as it would have provided a robust deterrent against Chinese aggression. However, the current situation indicates that it is too late for Taiwan to pursue a nuclear option. Instead, experts suggest that Taiwan should focus on strengthening its defensive capabilities and possibly manufacturing arms, particularly in the context of becoming a leader in drone and battery technology. This strategic move not only enhances Taiwan's defense but also aligns with the electrical and technological advancements that are crucial for countering threats from China.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode