ChinaTalk

Adam Tooze, a Columbia University professor renowned for his economic expertise, joins Matt Klein, author of the Overshoot Substack, for a deep dive into geopolitical tensions. They express genuine fears regarding nuclear escalation amid the Ukraine crisis. The discussion reveals Europe's surprising unity against Russia and explores the concept of 'NATO for Trade' in sanction strategies. Tooze and Klein also dissect the implications for Taiwan, emphasizing how current events are reshaping international security perceptions and alliances.

Ivana Karásková, a China Research Fellow and Project Coordinator at AMO, shares insightful perspectives from Central Europe. She discusses recent protests in Prague spurred by the war in Ukraine and the shift in EU policies, notably Germany's increased military support. Karásková examines China’s changing stance on the conflict and its implications for global politics. The conversation also touches on cultural memories from music festivals, highlighting the importance of community amid geopolitical tensions.

Chris Miller teaches at Tufts University and is a leading expert on Russian affairs, known for his book "Putinomics." He delves into the motivations behind Putin's invasion of Ukraine, discussing his isolated decisions and the disarray within his security council. The conversation also touches on the impact of sanctions on the Russian economy and the changing political sentiments in Russia, drawing parallels with historical events like Nazi Germany. Additionally, Miller explores the intricate dynamics of the Russia-China tech trade amid ongoing global tensions.

Justin Sherman, a Fellow at the Atlantic Council, delves into Putin's historical use of cyber operations during conflicts, like in Georgia and Crimea. He analyzes Russia's current cyber warfare tactics amid the war in Ukraine, highlighting the Kremlin's strategic restraint in major cyber offensives. Sherman discusses the intricate ties between the Russian government and cyber criminal networks, questioning whether recent arrests are genuine or mere political theater. He also emphasizes the complexities faced by Western leaders in responding to these evolving cyber threats.

Casey Handmer, a former NASA Jet Propulsion Lab system architect and founder of Terraform Industries, takes listeners on a journey through the future of space exploration. He discusses how Starlink could enhance internet access in developing countries and critiques the US immigration system for hindering scientific talent acquisition. The conversation then shifts to the costs of sending humans to Mars and the innovative engineering behind SpaceX's Starship. Handmer advocates for a balance between public-sector support and private innovation in the evolving space ecosystem.

Andrew Methven, author of the Slow Chinese Substack, dives into the colorful world of Chinese internet slang. He breaks down quirky phrases like 'rainbow farts' and reveals how gaming terms have crept into political discussions. The conversation uncovers the connection between slang and societal issues, including the evolution of language driven by social media. Methven also shares insights on the funny side of learning Chinese, highlighting valuable resources for language enthusiasts.

Peter Martin, author of "China's Civilian Army: The Making of Wolf Warrior Diplomacy," joins Schwarzman scholar Jason Zhou to explore the evolution of China's diplomatic style. They discuss the youthful diplomats of the '80s and how their ethos transformed into the assertive 'Wolf Warrior' approach today. Fascinating tidbits arise, from Xi Jinping's in-laws to the significance of Tiananmen in shaping modern strategies. The duo also humorously touches on why Chinese right-wingers send calcium pills to the foreign ministry. It's a deep dive into the nuances of nationalistic rhetoric in diplomacy.

Peter Martin, author of "China’s Civilian Army: The Making of Wolf Warrior Diplomacy," dives into the evolution of China's foreign ministry's strategies. He discusses the historical challenges faced by diplomats transitioning from guerrilla leaders to representatives abroad. The conversation reveals how personal memoirs provide insight into the complexities of Chinese diplomacy, especially during politically turbulent times like the Cultural Revolution. Martin highlights the nuanced relationships with the Soviet Union and the impact of ideological shifts on China's diplomatic identity.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Barnhart, a history professor and author, teams up with Tanner Greer, an insightful essayist. They delve into the motivations behind Japan's imperial ambitions and its quest for resource self-sufficiency. The conversation highlights FDR's concerns about Japan's possible invasion of the USSR and the alarming miscalculations that escalated tensions leading to World War II. Insights into the bureaucratic influences and innovative educational methods, like historical simulations, round out this captivating exploration of historical geopolitics.

The hosts share their renewed passion for home cooking, emphasizing how special ingredients elevate meals to gourmet experiences. Delving into creativity as a coping mechanism, they highlight the therapeutic nature of Chinese landscape painting and personal growth through literature. The evolution of the podcast is celebrated, with a focus on objective analysis in U.S.-China relations. Future collaborations, listener support, and a tribute to a recently deceased historian reveal their ambitious plans moving forward. An enlightening exploration of China's historical context enriches the conversation.