Learning from China’s Successes: Dan Wang Challenges U.S. to Embrace Engineering State Principles for Growth and Infrastructure Development
Analyst Dan Wang, known for his astute observations of China’s domestic dynamics during the three-year “zero-COVID” lockdown period, challenges Western readers to consider whether lessons from China might apply to the United States. In an interview with NPR, he posits that both countries share similarities, being restless and driven by competition, and that each can learn valuable lessons from the other.
Wang’s book, Breakneck: China’s Quest to Engineer the Future, offers a thought-provoking perspective on the differences between Chinese leadership, predominantly composed of engineers, and the U.S., where the governing class is largely composed of lawyers. This dichotomy raises questions about potential conflicts between the world’s two largest economies and the possibility of mutual learning.
In the interview, Wang explains how China’s achievements in areas such as infrastructure development, clean technology, and manufacturing offer potential solutions to some of America’s current problems. He highlights China’s construction of new homes, expansion of mass transit infrastructure, leadership in clean technology deployment, and robust manufacturing base, while contrasting these with what he perceives as America’s physical stagnation.
When asked about youth unemployment in China, Wang attributes it to the policies of China’s engineering state, which prioritizes advanced manufacturing over service jobs popular among young Chinese. He also points out that the Chinese state appears more interested in national power than the well-being of its citizens.
Regarding economic governance, Wang notes a convergence in thinking between the U.S. and China, particularly with regard to industrial policy. However, he criticizes President Trump for learning some of the worst elements from China while failing to emulate the policy discipline that Beijing has demonstrated in building up its manufacturing base.
Wang also discusses the impact of economic stagnation, partisan politics, and populism not only in America but also in many European countries. He suggests that policies proposed for the U.S. could be beneficial for European economies as well, emphasizing the need for greater learning across regions. Wang expresses a wish for Europe to adopt more entrepreneurial dynamism, while desiring China to become more lawyerly to strengthen its own position.
Lastly, Wang acknowledges that countries like France, Spain, and Japan are capable of building infrastructure without infringing on individual rights, demonstrating that the U.S. does not have to emulate China to develop infrastructure effectively.