Discussion on China's belief systems, capitalism, and what the West expects from China. Exploring Chinese power reflected in the internet and syncretism. Challenges of Chinese success narratives and PR. Revising Western views on China's development.

Writer and academic Kerry Brown's latest book is Xi: A Study in Power, which profiles the policies and personality behind China's leader for the last decade, Xi Jinping. He’s one of the most powerful people in global geopolitics yet in the West seemingly little is known about him. What are his ambitions for China and the rest of the world? Kerry Brown is Professor of Chinese Studies and Director of the Lau China Institute at Kings College London. He is joined in conversation on the podcast by our host, the historian, author and broadcaster, Rana Mitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Given the disruptive events unfolding in China in recent weeks, what does the future holds for Xi Jinping and the country? Some say that this is a pivotal moment for Xi’s strongman rule, especially given that the Chinese economy is also suffering. And what do China’s political and economic challenges mean for the rest of the world? To answer these questions we’re joined by Yasheng Huang professor at MIT and author of Capitalism with Chinese characteristics and Kerry Brown, Director of the Lau China Institute at Kings College London and author of Xi: A study in power. Our host for this episode is Carl Miller.Did you know that Intelligence Squared offers way more than podcasts? We’ve just launched a new online streaming platform Intelligence Squared+ and we’d love you to give it a go. It’s packed with more than 20 years’ worth of video debates and conversations on the world’s hottest topics. Tune in to live events, ask your questions or watch back on-demand totally ad-free with hours of discussion to dive into. The usual price is £14.99 a month, but we want to give our podcast listeners a special offer to try it out. For 10 days only, we’re offering a subscription for only £10 a month. Offer ends at midnight GMT on Tuesday 20th December. Visit intelligencesquaredplus.com and use the discount code MONTH10 or ANNUAL10 to start watching today.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this insightful discussion, Professor Kerry Brown, an expert in contemporary Chinese politics, sheds light on Taiwan's pivotal role in global geopolitics. He explains how Taiwan stands at the crossroads of democracy and autocracy, serving as a litmus test for international values. The conversation delves into the historical tensions between Taiwan and China, revealing the motivations behind China's aggressive policies. Brown emphasizes Taiwan's significance for U.S. and European interests and the potential consequences of conflict in the region.

Rainbow Murray, a Politics Professor at Queen Mary University, and Kerry Brown, Director of the Lau China Institute, analyze South Korea's surprising martial law declaration amid escalating public dissent. They discuss the implications for President Yoon's leadership and the military's loyalty. The conversation also touches on NATO's discussions regarding Ukraine's membership and protests in Georgia seeking EU integration. Lastly, they explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in advertising and the challenges it poses to traditional creative processes.