U.S. Must Secure AI Leadership to Counter China’s Growing Influence

The competition for supremacy in artificial intelligence (AI) between the United States and China is intensifying, with significant implications for global governance and technological standards. This contest is not just about technological advancement; it is a battle over which country’s values will shape the future of the international order. The United States must emerge as the dominant force in this crucial arena to maintain its influence and uphold a system that champions democracy, transparency, and individual rights.

At the heart of this struggle lies a fundamental contrast between the American and Chinese systems. The United States has historically fostered an environment that encourages open markets, international cooperation, and personal freedoms. In contrast, China, governed by the Communist Party, exemplifies an authoritarian model that restricts dissent and controls various aspects of life. The implications of China’s rise are far-reaching, as it seeks to expand its influence globally, often leveraging economic and political pressure to further its agenda.

China’s increasing assertiveness is evident on several fronts, most notably through its military expansion in the South China Sea and aggressive posturing towards Taiwan. These actions pose serious threats to regional stability and challenge core principles such as peaceful conflict resolution and freedom of navigation. The global response must be one of clarity and determination, extending beyond military readiness to encompass leadership in technology and innovation.

To compete effectively, the United States needs to invest in research and development, particularly in sectors crucial for the future. The CHIPS and Science Act represents a step toward restoring domestic semiconductor manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign sources. However, more comprehensive initiatives are necessary to bolster areas like aerospace, robotics, and secure communications. Additionally, immigration policies need to prioritize attracting and retaining top talent from around the world, as the United States has long benefited from a diverse pool of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs.

The challenge posed by China is not merely one of catching up; it is an aggressive effort to surpass the United States in key technologies. Through state subsidies and practices such as cyber espionage and intellectual property theft, China is rapidly narrowing the technological gap. If it successfully overtakes the U.S. in critical areas, the global landscape could fracture into competing spheres with divergent rules and standards, raising the specter of a divided international order.

Such a division poses significant risks. International norms governing cybersecurity, data privacy, and AI could become fragmented, jeopardizing global supply chains and undermining the functionality of key institutions like the World Trade Organization and the United Nations. The potential for misunderstandings and escalating tensions could lead to conflict, making it imperative for the U.S. to take proactive steps to shape the future rather than merely react to developments.

The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. Liberal democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression are increasingly under threat from rising authoritarianism and disruptive technologies. The United States must position itself as a leader that shapes a global order defined by openness, cooperation, and respect for human dignity. Should the U.S. fail to lead, the void could be filled by China, fundamentally altering the global system that has provided stability and prosperity for over 70 years.

Dr. Derek Levine, a professor at Monroe University and author of “The Dragon Takes Flight: China’s Aviation Policy, Achievements and Implications for the United States and Europe,” underscores the significance of this contest. His forthcoming book, “China’s Path to Dominance: Preparing for Confrontation with the U.S.,” set for release in summer 2025, aims to provide further insights into these critical dynamics. With extensive experience in China and contributions to major media outlets, Dr. Levine emphasizes the need for an active and sustained American presence in the global technological landscape.

The stakes are high, and the time for decisive action is now. The future of global governance hinges on whether the United States can reclaim its leadership role in AI and technology, ensuring the preservation of a world that values openness and democratic principles.