Danger Zones Dead Ahead For The U.S. And China: Prospects And Challenges

Abstract

To be successful and remain independent, every country must create a prosperous economy, keep peace among its people, maintain political stability, and ensure the security of the people and the country from internal and external threats. Doing all four at the same time is never easy and in a time of economic volatility, change, and uncertainty juggling all four becomes more difficult.  This is when countries enter the danger zone where hidden cracks and fissures in a country’s organization and structure could become destabilizing.

In this paper we will compare the challenges and prospects for the United States and China as both countries enter the danger zone.  The purpose of this paper is to examine how each country’s unique attributes are likely to impact its ability to succeed.  We will examine their political, economic and legal systems to determine the strengths and weaknesses of each.  We will also assess the role of corruption in each society.

Both the United States and China have serious economic, social, political and security issues on the horizon.  To solve the problems will require serious sacrifices and pain for a large portion of the populations in both countries.  Which form of government will best be able to adapt quickly to the constantly changing environment?  Will a serious economic slowdown topple the Communist dictatorship in China?  Will gridlock and distrust in the U.S. prevent Americans from adapting fast enough to make the necessary changes in time to save its financial system and economy?  Time will tell.