Odd Arne Westad

Odd Arne Westad, a Yale history professor and co-author of 'The Great Transformation: China’s Road from Revolution to Reform,' dives into China's remarkable shift to a capitalist economy. He discusses pivotal reforms under Deng Xiaoping and the impact of the Cultural Revolution. The conversation reveals the intricate relationship between economic changes and political stability. Westad also highlights the individual stories of resilience during this transformation and critiques common misconceptions about China's opening up to global markets.

Historian Odd Arne Westad dives deep into China's historical context and its implications for current U.S. foreign policy. He addresses the risks of drawing parallels between China and the Soviet Union, highlighting a shift toward multipolarity in a global economy. Westad draws connections to pre-World War I tensions, framing Taiwan as a potential flashpoint. He warns that China's ties with Russia may entangle it in future conflicts, and emphasizes the necessity of cautious U.S.-China relations to avert escalation.

Michael Beckley, an expert on great-power competition, and Arne Westad, a historian of international relations, dive deep into the U.S.-China relationship. Beckley stresses the importance of prioritizing security competition to avert conflict, while Westad likens the current tensions to pre-World War I dynamics. They explore the risks of economic interdependence fueling rivalry, the complexities of U.S. outreach amid Chinese mistrust, and the critical need for strategic communication. Their discussion unveils how diplomacy can serve as a tool to buy time and mitigate risks.