Can China & the U.S. Escape the ‘Thucydides Trap’? Experts Weigh In

Could the world's most critical relationship—between China and the U.S.—avoid spiraling into conflict? That's the billion-dollar question explored by Graham Allison, Harvard professor and creator of the 'Thucydides's Trap' theory, and Dr. Wang Huiyao, founder of the Center for China and Globalization, in a groundbreaking dialogue.

Allison's theory warns that rising tensions between an established power (like the U.S.) and a growing one (like China) often lead to war. But his new collaboration with Wang, Escaping the Thucydides's Trap, offers hope. 'Think of it like two titans learning to share the same playground,' Wang says. 'Competition doesn’t have to mean catastrophe.'

The key? Balancing rivalry with cooperation. Allison highlights climate change and AI governance as areas where both nations must collaborate. 'Imagine Team USA and Team China working together on global challenges—that’s the win-win scenario,' he adds.

For young professionals and students tracking geopolitics, this isn’t just theory—it’s about their future. As Wang puts it: 'This generation will define whether we repeat history or rewrite it.'

Bottom line: Avoiding conflict requires creativity, trust, and a dash of diplomatic genius. Let’s hope the playbook works.

Reference(s):

Avoid the "Thucydides's Trap": Talk with Graham Allison & Wang Huiyao

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