ChinaTalk

Eric Breckenfeld, Director of Technology Policy at the Semiconductor Industry Association, and Hassan Khan, a PhD in engineering and public policy, dive into the recent CHIPS Act. They discuss the National Semiconductor Technology Center, which aims to propel domestic semiconductor innovation. The conversation digs into the commercialization challenges facing the semiconductor industry, the shift beyond silicon, and the future of chip packaging. Together, they explore how U.S. startups can stay competitive, especially against China's growing influence in microelectronics.

Hassan Khan, a PhD holder in engineering and public policy, dives into the critical role of Taiwan's semiconductor industry. He highlights how halting operations could ripple through cloud computing and technological innovation. The discussion touches on the unique skills present in Taiwan and the threats posed by geopolitical tensions, including the potential impacts of a Chinese takeover. Khan also emphasizes the industry's evolution, including historical rivalries, and the major consequences for global tech if Taiwan's chips are disrupted.

Chris Buckley, a seasoned New York Times reporter with extensive knowledge of Chinese politics, joins author Xujun Eberlein, a Chongqing resident with insights into Bo Xilai's tumultuous tenure. They delve into Bo's dramatic ascent and fall from power, exploring his controversial 'Strike the Black' campaign and contrasting public perceptions in Chongqing. The discussion also touches on the ongoing impact of Bo's legacy within China's political landscape and intriguing anecdotes from his life behind bars, including unusual pastimes with other notable figures.

In this discussion, Joseph Torigian, author of "Prestige, Manipulation and Coercion," brings his expertise on elite power struggles in China and the Soviet Union. He dives into Khrushchev's rise post-Stalin and the political chess games of Mao's successors, including Deng Xiaoping’s complex leadership. The talk highlights the finer points of rivalry, manipulation, and the fundamental challenges of authority in authoritarian regimes. Co-host Lizzi adds insights from her background in Chinese politics, enriching the conversation on these historical dynamics.

David Engerman, author of "Know Your Enemy: The Rise and Fall of America's Soviet Experts," joins experts Chris Miller and Sam George to discuss the fascinating rise of Sovietology in America during the Cold War. They explore how a handful of specialists shaped U.S. policy, the failures of this intellectual mobilization, and the relevant lessons for today's study of China. The conversation dives into the complexities of understanding totalitarian regimes and reflects on the crucial relationship between academia and government funding.

Tobias Harris, a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress and author of "Abe Shinzo, the Iconoclast," delves into the complex legacy of Japan's former Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe. He discusses Abe's remarkable political journey, his bureaucratic reforms that transformed governance, and his nuanced handling of US-China relations. Tobias also reveals the personal touch of Abe's life, including the delicious offerings of his wife's Izakaya. Expect insights into Japan's evolving foreign policy, economic challenges, and the impact of historical grievances.

In this enlightening discussion, Professor Yuen Yuen Ang, a University of Michigan scholar and author of "China's Gilded Age," dives deep into the paradox of China's rapid growth amid widespread corruption. She breaks down corruption into categories like 'petty theft' and 'access money,' shedding light on how these factors influence governance. Ang compares China’s contemporary struggles with America's gilded age and discusses the unique dynamics of gender and bureaucracy in Chinese corruption. Her insights challenge conventional views and illuminate the complexities of China's economic landscape.

Athena Cao, a consumer industry investor based in Beijing, hosts Turner Sparks, a former English teacher turned Mr. Softee franchise founder and now a stand-up comedian. They share Turner's adventure in the ice cream biz, from catchy jingles and mango flavors to fierce competition and ruthless local regulations. Turner humorously recounts tales of backstabbing and clashing with officials that ultimately melted his sweet dreams. The conversation also touches on cultural influences in China's ice cream market and the shift from business to comedy.

Sam Hogg, a writer on UK-China relations and former parliamentary employee, shares insights on the evolving dynamics between the UK and China. He discusses how optimism from Xi Jinping's visit has shifted to skepticism due to human rights concerns over Xinjiang and Hong Kong. Hogg dives into the increasing influence of Chinese expertise in UK politics, the importance of Mandarin, and the youth's aspirations in navigating these complex relations. He also critiques the media's portrayal of China and advocates for a more nuanced understanding of shared histories.

John Bateman, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, shares insightful perspectives on US-China tech dynamics. He analyzes the complexities of competition and collaboration, emphasizing a balanced policy approach amid uncertainty. The conversation touches on why certain technologies were prioritized historically, the challenges of predicting foreign leadership behavior, and the importance of sound intelligence in strategy formulation. Bateman creatively links these discussions to Bob Dylan's music, highlighting the emotional undertones of geopolitical paranoia.