Category: CeMEAS Conversations

In this interview, we explore Felix Erdt’s research on how Confucian scholars from Sichuan engaged with Western concepts of history and progress during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Erdt delves into how these thinkers reconciled traditional Chinese philosophical frameworks, such as Yin and Yang, with the modern idea of an open, unpredictable future.…

The Political Logics of China’s Global Infrastructure: Redefining Development in the Global South In this CeMEAS Conversation, we speak with Austin Strange about his recent publication on the political logics and global implications of China’s infrastructure projects. Mr. Strange explores the historical foundations and evolution of the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as China’s…

Volkswagen und die Transformation des chinesischen Automobilmarktes   In diesem Interview sprechen wir mit Felix Lee über seine neue Publikation “China, mein Vater und Ich: Über den Aufstieg einer Supermacht und was Familie Lee aus Wolfsburg damit zu tun hat”. Das Buch wurde im Jahr 2023 vom Aufbau-Verlag veröffentlicht und erhielt den Deutschen Wirtschaftsbuchpreis. Herr…

Rethinking the Cultural Revolution: Embracing New Perspectives and Narratives | CeMEAS Conversations In this interview, Rebecca Karl discusses the significance of the Cultural Revolution in China and its impact on global history. She emphasizes how it marked a pivotal moment when Chinese society challenged hierarchical structures and bureaucratic dominance, advocating for democratic decision-making. Despite resulting…

Beyond the Legend: Bruce Lee’s Side Kick, New Martial Aesthetics and the Resurgence of Orientalism CeMEAS Conversations: In this engaging interview with Paul Bowman, we embark on a journey through the multifaceted legacy of the martial arts legend, Bruce Lee. From his revolutionary contributions to action choreography to his pivotal role in bridging cultural divides,…

Understanding China’s Global Engagements Sascha Klotzbücher (Comenius University, Bratislava)  talked about the impact of the united front concept on international cooperation. In this interview, Klotzbücher discusses the following questions: 1. How does China frame its approach to global engagement, especially from the perspective of the Communist Party? 2. What is the “United Front Concept,” and…

Bridging Capital and Borders: Small-Scale Chinese Entrepreneurs in Laos and their new role In this interview, Wanjing Chen (Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology ) discusses the following questions: 1. What motivated you to research the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on local Chinese entrepreneurs in Laos? 2. What are the main…

Global China’s Underbelly: Transnational Organized Crime and China’s Regional Engagement in Southeast Asia In this interview, Ivan Franceschini (University of Botswana) discusses the following questions: 1. Your book, ‘Global China as Method,’ challenges the view of China as an isolated entity with unique systems. How does this new perspective contribute to our understanding of China’s…

Southeast Asia’s Security Landscape in Transition: Towards a New Order Between China and the U.S. In this interview, Felix Heiduk (Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik) discusses the following questions: 1. What is your assessment of the changing dynamics in Southeast Asia’s regional security order, especially with the emergence of China as a significant player? 2. What…

The China-Pakistan Partnership: Building Infrastructure and Soft Power in South Asia In this interview, Agnieszka Nitza-Makowska ((University of Tartu, Estonia /Collegium Civitas, Poland) discusses the following questions: 1. Your book, ‘Global China as Method,’ challenges the view of China as an isolated entity with unique systems. How does this new perspective contribute to our understanding…

Exploring China’s Relations with Central Asia: Insights from Uzbek and Kazakh Scholars In this interview, Julie Chen (University of Helsinki) discusses the following questions: 1. From the perspective of Central Asian nations, what are the core concerns regarding Xinjiang/Uyghur matters and how do they impact China’s relations with the region? 2. How do domestic factors…

Fast Fashion, Migrant Labor and Urban Villages in Southern China In this interview Nellie Chu elaborates on the interplay between the fast fashion industry, urban villages, and migrant labor in Southern China. The discussion provides a comprehensive examination of the post-socialist transformations in China, shedding light on the unique labor practices, land dynamics, and personhood…