ChinaTalk

Chris Miller, an associate professor at Tufts University specializing in Russian politics, shares insightful perspectives on Sino-Soviet dynamics. He discusses how Deng Xiaoping's reforms drew lessons from the USSR, particularly in the late 1970s. The conversation navigates the complexities of Soviet economic policies under leaders from Stalin to Gorbachev and explores pivotal moments, like Gorbachev's visit to China, that shaped their reform approaches. Miller also highlights the lasting impressions of the USSR's collapse on Chinese leadership, including Xi Jinping's reflections on stability and change.

Dongwoo Kim, a postgraduate research fellow specializing in AI at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, dives into the dynamics of AI development in East Asia. He addresses misconceptions about AI, connecting it to everyday technologies like Google and Facebook. Dongwoo highlights the challenges faced by Chinese researchers abroad, especially regarding funding and collaboration. He also discusses Japan's Society 5.0 initiative, South Korea's strategic AI plans, and the urgent need for greater tech literacy to navigate the future of AI.

Graham Webster, a China digital economy fellow and coordinating editor of the DigiChina project, shares his expert insights on China's digital landscape. He discusses the complexities of China's AI policies and the nuances of its legal regulations, particularly regarding data privacy. The conversation sheds light on the real implications of the controversial social credit system and explores the escalating tensions between the U.S. and China amidst a technological cold war. Webster emphasizes the need for informed dialogue about global cybersecurity and surveillance.

Professor Julia Lovell, author of "Maoism: A Global History," discusses the global reach of Maoist ideology in the 50s and 60s. She explores how diverse groups, from the Black Panthers to the Shining Path in Peru, adopted Mao's ideas. Lovell highlights the 'counterculture craze' that drew Western youth to Maoism, seeing it as a model for protest. Additionally, she addresses the complexities of Mao's foreign policy, including its effects on Vietnam and humanity's darker encounters with Mao-inspired movements across different regions.

Professor Julia Lovell discusses the intricate legacy of Maoism, emphasizing its contradictory nature and global impact. She delves into Mao's ideology, the Sino-Soviet split, and his embrace of contradictions. The episode touches on the role of Song Ching Ling in supporting the CCP, Edgar Snow's portrayal of Mao, McCarthyism's impact on Chinese expertise in the US, and Mao's influence on global insurgency.

Yi Yang, the founder of JustPod and a former senior editor at Yicai China, dives into China's booming podcast industry. He discusses the rise of companies like Ximalaya and the sharp differences between Chinese and Western content styles. The conversation touches on podcast monetization, censorship challenges, and unique storytelling formats that resonate with Chinese audiences. Yi also shares insights about bridging the cultural gap in podcasting and how listeners are evolving their habits in this vibrant audio landscape.

Join Donald Clarke, a law professor at George Washington University and a leading expert on Chinese legal systems, as he delves into the intricate workings of China’s legal landscape. He discusses the historical evolution from the Qing dynasty to today's reforms and sheds light on local versus central government dynamics. Clarke critiques Huawei's legal strategies concerning cybersecurity laws and explores the balance between maintaining stability and upholding justice. His insights reveal the challenges faced by both multinationals and smaller firms in China's unique business environment.

Hal Brands, a Professor at Johns Hopkins SAIS, and Zach Cooper, a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, dive into the complexities of U.S.-China relations. They discuss the evolution from optimism to tension in diplomatic ties and the role of collective pressure as a potential strategy. The pair highlight the importance of U.S. alliances and the challenges of maintaining unity among allies. They also explore how generational shifts and narratives impact perspectives, shaping future policy directions in an increasingly fraught geopolitical landscape.

Peter Hessler, a veteran journalist known for his insightful reporting on China and Egypt, shares his experiences from years spent in both countries. He reflects on the contrasts between the Tiananmen Square massacre and the 2013 coup in Cairo, exploring the complexities of revolutions. The podcast delves into cultural connections, examining how Egyptians view China positively amidst political unrest. Hessler also discusses the intricate ties between religion and societal change in both nations, emphasizing the role of history in shaping identities.

Ling Chen, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins and author of "Manipulating Globalization," dives into the fascinating transformation of Shenzhen from a fishing village into a tech powerhouse. She explores why local bureaucrats played a crucial role in attracting investment, contrasting Shenzhen’s success with Suzhou’s stagnation. Chen discusses the complexities of China’s industrial policy evolution and how bureaucratic influences shape innovation. Her insights reveal essential lessons for understanding the dynamics of Chinese firms within the global value chain.