The New Bazaar
AI and the Global Battle for Tech Supremacy
Dec 19, 2024
Jeffrey Ding, a scholar at George Washington University and author of "Technology and the Rise of Great Powers," delves into the U.S.-China tech rivalry. He presents a fresh theory emphasizing that it's not merely about developing new technologies but also about how well they spread across the economy. Ding argues that while China is perceived as an AI superpower, misconceptions about its capabilities abound. He highlights the vital role of education and decentralization in fostering innovation and discusses how effective technology diffusion can drive significant economic growth.
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Quick takeaways
- Effective diffusion of General Purpose Technologies is crucial for economic productivity, surpassing the significance of merely developing innovative technologies.
- China's technological advancements are hindered by regulatory barriers and lack of integration, impacting its overall economic competitiveness against the U.S.
Deep dives
China's Technological Diffusion Deficit
China shows strong innovation in certain technologies, such as artificial intelligence, but significantly lags behind the U.S. in technological diffusion capacity. Many Chinese firms and institutions produce valuable AI research and patents, yet the difficulty of adopting and integrating these technologies throughout the economy remains a considerable challenge. Factors contributing to this deficit include stringent government regulations and institutional barriers that hinder effective technology transfer and collaboration between industry and academia. Ultimately, China's prowess in individual technological advancements does not translate to widespread economic benefits, as seen in comparisons with the United States.
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