America, China, and the Innovation Race

America, China, and the Innovation Race

Author: The Politics Guys - Government Democracy & News September 2, 2026 Duration: 1:01:42
Is America really losing its technological edge to China? Mike talks with Mehran Gul, author of The New Geography of Innovation, about why U.S. tech dominance may be stronger than it looks—and why China has nevertheless become a genuine innovation powerhouse. They explore Silicon Valley’s surprising government roots, the critical role of venture capital, Europe’s struggle to compete in AI, South Korea’s giant conglomerates, Singapore’s unusually capable state, the demographic threat facing innovative economies, and why geography may matter more—not less—in an increasingly digital world.

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Tired of political conversations that feel more like shouting matches? The Politics Guys offers a different space, one built on civility and genuine expertise rather than partisan performance. Host Michael Baranowski guides discussions with a rotating panel of knowledgeable voices-political scientists, law professors, and attorneys who've worked within government. These aren't just pundits; they're practitioners and scholars who bring evidence and experience to the table. Each episode digs into the nuances of American policy and the political landscape, ensuring multiple perspectives are heard not as debate points, but as integral parts of a complex whole. You'll find the analysis here is grounded and deliberate, a conscious step away from the reactive news cycle. This podcast thrives on the principle that understanding different viewpoints is the foundation of a healthier democracy, not a compromise of one's own. It’s for anyone seeking depth over drama, and substance over soundbites, in their political listening.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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