Has China Won?

A leading global intellectual examines the geopolitical rivalry between the U.S. and China, highlighting China's resurgence and America's challenges. The author calls for a strategic overhaul to address these shifting dynamics.

In Has China Won?, Kishore Mahbubani, a prominent global public intellectual, explores the shifting dynamics of power in the 21st century, particularly focusing on the rivalry between the United States and China. He argues that while America has become increasingly arrogant and distracted, China, with its rich history spanning three millennia, is positioning itself to become the world's leading power. The book delves into the ongoing geopolitical contest, marked by trade wars and naval confrontations in the South China Sea, raising critical questions about the future of global leadership.

Mahbubani evaluates both nations, highlighting China's strategic thinking and ambitious initiatives under capable leadership. He notes that the Chinese populace has regained cultural confidence, resulting in a society that is vibrant and innovative. In contrast, the United States has struggled to maintain its status as a global leader, particularly in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, which exposed vulnerabilities in its economic model and diminished its image as the indispensable nation.

The author emphasizes the need for American policymakers to confront complacency and rethink both domestic and foreign policies that have eroded the nation's foundations and global influence. He warns that without significant strategic changes, the relatively young United States, with a population a fraction of China's, may find it challenging to compete with the world's oldest continuous civilization. Through his candid analysis, Mahbubani offers valuable insights into the stakes and potential missteps in this evolving global landscape.