As I was saying, American consumers love cheap Chinese goods. We love them so much that we’ve decided to pass the bill along to future generations. That ethical choice aside (for the moment anyway), let us think about what is in the common good with regards to China.
Ask yourself this question, “Will American consumers pay 25% more for a 3-pack of socks so that 200 sock factory jobs can be saved in the Midwest?” Though it pains me to say it, I maintain the answer is “No.” Knowing this and knowing how fused the US and Chinese economies are, it may make sense to rethink our feelings on China’s growth.
Rather than screaming about the Chinese threat or lamenting China as superpower, doesn’t it feel better to acknowledge that there are other countries that wish to be as influential on the world stage as the US is? This is where the Progressive solution enters into the picture; Is the world not big enough to share?
I know, I know, something doesn’t sit right. What about nucular proliferation and Taiwan? I agree, there are complications to be ironed out. But it is a first step. I shall continue with a gigantic second step next time.