US Wages Economic War on China, But It Won’t Stop Its Rise w/ Ben Norton
Mar 27, 2025
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Ben Norton, an investigative journalist in Beijing and editor of Geopolitical Economy Report, discusses the ongoing economic war between the US and China. He reveals China's resilience in the face of severe sanctions and tariffs. Norton emphasizes the shifting attitudes of Chinese parents towards US educational institutions due to increasing xenophobia. He critiques GDP as an inadequate measure of well-being and explores the implications of U.S. foreign policy on global perceptions. The conversation also addresses the rise of China as a formidable alternative to U.S. financial dominance.
The repression of Chinese students in the U.S. undermines American soft power and risks alienating future international scholars.
The U.S. government's military support for Israel showcases internal ethical dilemmas regarding its foreign policy and human rights obligations.
China's state-led capitalism facilitates rapid economic growth and social improvements, challenging the U.S. narrative of economic superiority and governance.
Deep dives
Impact of Student Repression on U.S. Soft Power
The repression of foreign students in the U.S. has significant implications for American soft power, particularly concerning Chinese students. Reports indicate that investigations against Chinese international students are occurring across all 50 states, illustrating a broader pattern of suspicion and hostility towards foreign students. This climate of fear leads many Chinese parents to reconsider sending their children to the U.S. for education, with one expert noting that individuals previously eager to send their kids to American institutions are now fearing for their safety. Consequently, this shift not only affects individual educational choices but also diminishes the U.S.'s attractiveness as an educational destination, weakening its influence globally.
U.S.-Israeli Relations and the Gaza Conflict
The U.S. government's unyielding support for Israel during its military operations in Gaza highlights a complex and contentious relationship that shapes international perceptions. Evidence suggests that the U.S. plays a critical role in enabling Israeli military actions, with U.S. military assistance being pivotal to Israel's operations. The ongoing conflict, termed a genocide by various international experts, has provoked substantial protests within the U.S. where demonstrators face heightened risks of arrest. These domestic repercussions illustrate the external and internal conflicts relating to U.S. foreign policy, as citizens confront the ethical dilemmas of supporting a government implicated in such significant human rights violations.
China's Economic Growth and Global Influence
China's remarkable economic evolution over the past few decades has transitioned the country from a state of poverty to one of significant global influence. The Chinese government has lifted vast numbers of its population out of poverty, and recent statistics underscore its leadership in various advanced sectors, surpassing traditional economic giants in fields like electric vehicle production. This economic ascent not only demonstrates China's capacity for leadership but also poses a challenge to U.S. global dominance and its narrative around economic superiority. As China continues to evolve and expand its trade networks, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative, it offers alternatives to developing nations, reshaping global economic landscapes.
The Role of State-Owned Enterprises in China
State-led capitalism in China plays a crucial role in its economic success, differing fundamentally from the privatized model prevalent in the U.S. By maintaining control over critical sectors, the Chinese government can direct resources efficiently for infrastructure projects and social programs, enabling vast improvements in living standards. In contrast, the U.S. model often prioritizes profit maximization over public welfare, which leads to higher costs of living and increased financial burdens for average citizens. This difference in economic structures not only impacts domestic policies but also influences how countries worldwide perceive governance and economic strategy.
Emergence of Alternative Global Partnerships
The shift in global power dynamics is evident as many countries in the Global South seek alternatives to traditional western-led economic systems, particularly through initiatives like BRICS and the Belt and Road Initiative. This action reflects a growing desire among these nations to move away from dependence on U.S. financial mechanisms, which often come with stringent austerity measures and debts. By fostering partnerships that emphasize mutual benefit rather than predatory economics, China offers viable pathways for development that avoid the pitfalls of past economic exploitation. As a result, the future of global trade and diplomatic relations is becoming more multipolar, reflecting an increased willingness to challenge historical power disparities in international relations.
The US is waging an economic war on China while threatening Chinese students here on student visas. But China has maintained huge economic and social growth, in spite of severe economic sanctions and new tariffs.
Brian Becker is joined by Ben Norton, an investigative journalist currently based in Beijing, and the editor of the independent news website Geopolitical Economy Report, at geopoliticaleconomy.com.
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