There are many new books about China in the book stores. Here are some acclaimed volumes (above) that have captured the attention, emotions and imaginations of contemporary readers.
As you visit websites discussing the progress of China you will discover much for which to be intrigued, entertained and even alarmed. As you will see and hear from the books and audio clips included in this post, there are a kaleidoscope of views unfolding about China these days. Each will shed some light, but none can tell the full story.
What is happening in China is huge. For instance, did you know that India has now become the biggest trade-customer with China? The U.S. is no longer its top trading partner. Listen to an NPR REPORT about this topic by clicking on the link about China's Economy in the box on the right side of this page.
Did you also know that the sudden wealth of China has made it possible for China to dedicate ever increasing sums of money to the development of its military, including the development of its nuclear submarine fleet. This has created no small concern in the world, especially among those American allies who share the same coastal waters with China, namely, Japan.
Did you know that China is interested in the militarization of space, and its space program is moving ahead at an aggressive pace? Yes, all these things parallel the rapid growth of this emerging nation. In the next several decades we will see China experience surprising changes in the areas of science, politics and commerce. The question on everyone's mind is, "Can this be done peacefully, or will it be a bumpy road?"
How these new realities evolve will forever change the way Americans and Europeans relate to their global neighbors. The only wise path for the west is to participate in these changes, because they will affect all our futures in unpredictable ways.
