The Real Story Behind The US-China Tech Rivalry

https://www.theteanetwork.co

For decades, China was presented as the authoritarian rival to the West: censored, controlled and fundamentally opposed to liberal democracy. But that story is now more complicated.

As trust in US leadership declines, China's technology and culture are gaining influence worldwide. Is China challenging the West — or quietly shaping its future?

This week on The Tea, we're joined by journalist and bestselling author Yi-Ling Liu, founding China editor of Rest of World. In her debut book, The World Dancers: Searching for Freedom and Connection on the Chinese Internet, she breaks down the contradictions behind the way China is often portrayed — and the complex reality behind the headlines.

Also in the show:

⚡ Inside China’s censorship (and self-censorship) system

⚡ Why China’s rise is exposing America’s weaknesses

⚡ The contradictions Western media often miss about China

⚡ The hidden costs behind China’s economic miracle

⚡ Behind “China-maxxing” trend

⚡YouTube influencers and the one-dimensional story about China

⚡The AI arms race: real threat or Silicon Valley narrative?

As Yi-Ling argues, China defies simple labels. It is a technological powerhouse, a deeply capitalist society — and a country still shaped by state control.

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AUDIO CREDITS

Presenter–Producer: Dr. Myriam François

Guest: Yi-Ling Liu

Senior Producer: Sara Farolfi

Producer: Nadège Bizimungu

Assistant Producer: Poppy Jacobs

Research: Constance Creswell, Iman Saleh

Video Editor: Max Bubnov

An MPWR Productions show.

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