Sinica Podcast

Is China Gaining Ground in Technology Diffusion? A Conversation with Jeffrey Ding

54 snips
Mar 27, 2025
In a thought-provoking discussion, Jeffrey Ding, an Assistant Professor of Political Science at George Washington University and author of 'Technology and the Rise of Great Powers', dives into the significance of technology diffusion versus mere invention for national power. He explores China's current technological landscape and its shift towards open-source initiatives. Ding highlights how institutional and cultural factors in China affect tech dissemination, while also examining its successes in areas like semiconductors and AI to reveal the potential closing of a so-called diffusion deficit.
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INSIGHT

Diffusion vs. Invention

  • Technological leadership hinges on effective technology diffusion, not just invention.
  • Nations must bridge the gap between innovation hubs and broader application across industries.
INSIGHT

China's Diffusion Deficit

  • China faces a diffusion deficit despite graduating many engineers.
  • The density and quality of engineering talent relative to population size are crucial for productivity.
INSIGHT

Importance of Institutions

  • Institutional factors are key for technology diffusion, including education, regulation, and IP regimes.
  • Jeff Ding prioritizes institutions supporting skill formation as the biggest bottleneck for tech development.
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