Yakov Feygin, author of "Building a Ruin," dives into the economic struggles of the Soviet Union and parallels with contemporary China. He discusses the strengths and limitations of Stalin's economic model and Khrushchev's shift towards competition with capitalism. The conversation highlights how technological optimism inspired Soviet reforms, many of which echo in Chinese policies today. Feygin also unveils the ideological battles within the Soviet leadership and the historical insights that can inform China's future trajectory.

Dive into the world of Taiwan's semiconductor industry! The discussion features the unique role of TSMC and its strategic management practices. Explore how Taiwan's government supports this high-tech sector and the fierce rivalry with Samsung. The impact of AI on chip manufacturing and the concept of 'Silicon Shield' take center stage. Moreover, hear about the cultural differences in international relations and how they shape Taiwan's global strategies. A fascinating insight into a dynamic business ecosystem!

Yasheng Huang, author of "The Rise and Fall of the EAST," dives into the complexities of China's governance from 1949 to the present. He reveals how Mao selectively adopted imperial practices while reshaping governance, and contrasts China's rapid growth with India’s struggles despite turbulence. The discussion spans Xi Jinping's unique leadership approach, the aftermath of Tiananmen, and the failures of engagement with China regarding political liberalization. Huang also offers creative solutions for human rights advocacy and critiques the impact of China's political trajectory on U.S. relations.

Yasheng Huang, an acclaimed author and expert on China's governance, discusses the influential imperial examination system and its legacy. He reveals how this system shaped governance, allowing autocratic dynasties to thrive on meritocracy. The conversation dives into social mobility in imperial China, the system's survival after the Mongol conquest, and its implications for modern China's economic future. Co-host Ilari Mäkelä adds depth to the exploration of historical narratives and their impact on today's political dynamics.

Kumar Garg, a former Obama official in the Office of Science and Technology Policy, now leads Renaissance Philanthropy, focusing on innovative science funding. He discusses strategies for identifying high-impact projects in areas like carbon sequestration and neurocognition. The conversation also highlights the importance of alliance management in US-China competition and critiques current R&D funding models. Garg emphasizes how philanthropy can catalyze groundbreaking advancements and reshape the landscape of science and technology.

Michael Collins, acting chair of the National Intelligence Council, has 28 years of experience in the intelligence community. He discusses how intelligence informs policymaking and the unique challenges in collecting data on both nation-state adversaries and non-state actors. The conversation dives into assessing China's tech and military capabilities, introducing the concept of 'Narrative Intelligence.' Collins also emphasizes the need for improved long-term forecasting strategies to mitigate groupthink in intelligence assessments.

Join Peter Harrell, former advisor on the National Economic Council, and Nazak Nikakhtar, ex-Commerce Department official, as they dissect the future of U.S. industrial policy. They delve into government leadership dynamics, exploring past shortcomings under Biden and Trump. The discussion highlights the bipartisan drive to improve competition with China and offers inventive solutions for supply chain resilience. Plus, they share strategic insights on the delicate balance of export controls and the role of lawyers in navigating complex trade policies.

Jeffrey Ding, a leading scholar on China’s AI and professor at George Washington University, dives into the intricate relationship between technology and global power. He explains why long-term productivity relies on technology diffusion rather than just innovation. Historical examples highlight the cultural roadblocks faced by powers like the UK and Soviet Union, while emphasizing how China lags in this aspect. The importance of decentralized systems in the U.S., especially during the Cold War, and the need for strategic policymaking in AI development are also key discussion points.

Brian Pomper, former Chief International Trade Counsel and now a partner at Akin Gump, dives into the complexities of global patent policy. He discusses how the U.S. historically maintained innovation dominance and explores the aggressive tactics of big tech against the patent system. The fierce patent battles, like Apple vs. Samsung, showcase a tech competition landscape. China’s controversial patent litigation raises eyebrows in Europe, while patent policy significantly impacts international trade agreements.

William Henagan and Robert Obayda, directors at the National Security Council, dive into the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort among Canada, Finland, and the U.S. They discuss the vital role of icebreakers in national security and how cranes factor into industrial policy. The conversation also highlights Finland's surprising strength in NATO dynamics and the need for strategic sourcing away from China. The implications of industrial collaboration and future challenges in shipbuilding reveal the complexities of global alliances.