Sinica Podcast

Alice Miller, a leading authority on Chinese politics and foreign policy, joins Joseph Fewsmith, a professor focused on contemporary Chinese politics. They discuss the evolution of methods used to analyze China, including the shift from fieldwork to media analysis. The duo explores the dual systems of information in Chinese media and the impact of censorship. They also reflect on the challenges faced by younger scholars in today's research landscape, emphasizing the need for innovative methodologies and the importance of bridging gaps in understanding contemporary Chinese society.

In a riveting panel, experts delve into China's evolving role in global dynamics, including its ties to Europe and the Ukraine conflict. Una Aleksandra Bērziņa-Čerenkova highlights China's influence in the Baltic states amid geopolitical challenges. Dmytro Yefremov provides insights on China's foreign relations from a Ukrainian perspective. Qiang Liu discusses energy security and China's Green transition, while Klaus Larres examines the shifting alliances between China, Russia, and the West, emphasizing the intricacies at play in international relations.

David Zweig, Professor Emeritus from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, dives into the dynamics of Chinese talent recruitment abroad. He discusses the Thousand Talents Plan and how geopolitical tensions shape decisions for Chinese professionals. Zweig examines the impact of the U.S. China Initiative on academic collaboration, revealing fears of racial profiling and its chilling effect on partnerships. He also offers solutions for balancing national security with the necessity of scientific exchange, making for a thought-provoking conversation.

In a compelling discussion, Senator Andy Kim, a knowledgeable voice in China policy, joins James Steinberg, the former Deputy Secretary of State, to examine the complexities of U.S.-China relations. They dive into the vital importance of U.S. credibility regarding Taiwan amid rising tensions. The conversation also challenges the notion of a new Cold War with China, advocating for engagement rather than division. Additionally, they address the delicate balance of power between Congress and the executive branch in shaping foreign policy.

In this engaging discussion, Andy Liu, an Associate Professor of History at Villanova University, dives into the parallels between U.S.-China trade tensions today and those of the 1980s. He explores how Cold War geopolitics shaped trade relations, what lessons China learned from Japan, and Xi Jinping's vision for the economy. Liu highlights China's shift towards a Ford-like industrial structure and critiques the Trump administration's use of tariffs, offering a historical context to current trade dynamics.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Jeremy Goldkorn, co-founder of the Sinica Podcast and editor at Chinafile, shares his insights on the shifting narrative regarding China in the U.S. He explores the role of social media in changing perceptions, specifically among younger generations, and the decline of human rights rhetoric. Jeremy predicts a cautious yet hopeful future for U.S.-China relations, considering how recent developments might influence American attitudes. The conversation delves into the implications of these changes and the complex dynamics at play.

In this lively discussion, Adam Tooze, an esteemed economic historian, joins Qing Wang, a dynamic host of 'The Weirdo' podcast, and Zichen Wang, a research fellow with deep insights into China's economic landscape. They dive into China's evolving relationship with the U.S. post-election, explore shifting consumer behaviors, and dissect China's ambitious industrial strategies. Notably, they address the challenges of the social safety net and the importance of national pride in how Chinese companies are perceived globally.

Andrew Mertha, a prominent expert in China Studies and the director of the SAIS China Research Center, introduces a new series focusing on the complexities of studying Chinese elite politics. He discusses the necessity of adapting research methodologies in light of access restrictions and highlights the intricate political dynamics during Deng Xiaoping's leadership. Mertha critiques existing literature, emphasizes the need for nuanced perspectives, and explores the critical role of historical context in understanding contemporary governance under Xi Jinping.

Ivy Yang, founder of Wavelet Strategy, and David Fishman, a senior manager at Lantau Group, dive into the fascinating migration of TikTok users to Xiaohongshu. They discuss the cultural dynamics and community shifts happening as American users adapt to a new platform. The conversation reveals the challenges of bicultural communication and the importance of mutual understanding between American and Chinese users. They also highlight the skepticism around media and the evolving landscape of social media in China with its unique cultural nuances.

Lizzi Lee, a Fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, shares her sharp insights on China’s economic strategies amid the Trump presidency. She discusses the challenges of navigating US-China relations and the importance of self-reliance in tech. Lizzi delves into China's capital market reforms, the balance between immediate market confidence and long-term structural changes, and the post-COVID economic landscape. She also highlights youth issues, including the rise of 'TikTok refugees' and the insights from studies on unemployment and COVID-19 effects.