Heated Debate: Can China Overtake the USA?

By Joel Wong

This summary focuses on the economic and security implications of China’s potential rise as a major global power, based on a debate between two experts: Kishore Mahbubani and John Mearsheimer.

Economic Implications:

Mahbubani: China’s economic growth can lead to it becoming the world’s largest economy without seeking global domination. Cooperation with China can foster a stable global economic environment.
Mearsheimer: China’s economic strength will translate into military power and a desire for regional dominance in Asia. This will lead to intense economic competition with the US, potentially
destabilizing global markets.

Security Implications:

Mahbubani: Peaceful coexistence with China is possible through cooperation and managing its rise to avoid provocations.
Mearsheimer: China’s rise will naturally lead to increased competition and potential conflict due to its pursuit of regional dominance, similar to the US in the Western Hemisphere.

Challenges to Avoiding Conflict:

Historically, major powers often struggle to coexist peacefully due to competing interests.
Achieving complete conflict avoidance requires substantial diplomatic efforts, mutual respect, and a willingness to collaborate.

Conclusion:

The possibility of avoiding conflict depends on the ability of China and the US to navigate their interests collaboratively. While challenging, it’s not impossible. Cooperation and managing China’s rise can reduce tensions, but achieving total peace remains complex.