In Module #9, one of the key themes I learned from this module is ASEAN. ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It's a regional organization that promotes political and economic cooperation and regional stability among its members. In the required viewings, the author has discussed that " ASEAN states find themselves entangled in the throes of their conflict. From increasing militarization in the South China Sea, and the deteriorating of decades-old alliances, to a massive manufacturing diaspora in the region, we examine the quandary the Sino-US rivalry has created for Southeast Asia." which is correlated with Professor Chu's Module Objective #1. In this, I think The growing rivalry between the United States and China is a central feature of global geopolitics, and Southeast Asia, with its strategic location and economic significance, finds itself at the heart of this competition. While the region is unlikely to have to "pick a side" in the stark sense of choosing one superpower over the other, the increasing tension between the U.S. and China may push Southeast Asian nations to make strategic decisions that affect their political, economic, and security relations.

Besides this, the lecture ( module Video) (online class) has also discussed Is Myanmar the Frontline of a New Cold War? and I have read that Myanmar, with its strategic location in Southeast Asia, has become a significant point of focus in the context of the growing geopolitical rivalry between the U.S. and China. Whether Myanmar is the "frontline" of a new Cold War is a matter of interpretation, but its ongoing political crisis, economic instability, and foreign relations have positioned it at the intersection of competing global influences.

Another point the lecture ( module Video )(online class) has explored The 2021 Military Coup: In February 2021, Myanmar's military, the Tatmadaw, ousted the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. This event led to widespread protests, a violent crackdown, and the rise of armed resistance, sparking a civil conflict that continues to destabilize the country.

Finally, in the lecture module

Video (online class) #, we have also examined America Can’t Surpass China’s Power in Asia. That The assertion that "America can’t surpass China’s power in Asia" reflects a growing understanding of the shifting balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region. Over recent decades, China has made significant strides in enhancing its political, economic, and military influence in Asia, while the United States, though still a dominant global power, faces challenges in maintaining its preeminent role in the region. There are several key factors that explain why China’s power in Asia is increasingly difficult for the U.S. to surpass, or even rival, in the foreseeable future.

sources:

https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/america-cant-surpass-chinas-power-asia

https://www.foreignaffairs.com/burma-myanmar/new-cold-war-hein-myers

https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2023/09/19/how-asia-is-reinventing-its-economic-model

Besides this, the lecture (in-person class) / module Video (online class) has also discussed Economic growth in asia and I have read that Economic growth in Asia has been one of the defining features of the 21st century, with the region experiencing rapid expansion, transforming both its internal structures and its role in the global economy. Asia has become the world’s economic engine, with both developing and developed economies contributing significantly to global growth.

Another point the lecture/ module video has explored Is the rise in china sustainable? I believe The sustainability of China’s rise as a global economic and geopolitical power is a critical question, one that has garnered much debate. While China has achieved impressive economic growth over the past few decades, several factors suggest that its continued rise is not guaranteed without addressing certain challenges. To assess whether China’s rise is sustainable, it is essential to look at both the strengths and the challenges it faces moving forward.

Finally, in the lecture/ module video 3, we have also examined The topic of preparing China for war involves a range of military, strategic, and geopolitical considerations. China's approach to defense and military preparedness is shaped by its aspirations to protect its sovereignty, assert its geopolitical interests, and enhance its global influence. In recent years, China has taken significant steps to modernize its military and increase its preparedness for potential conflict, while also expanding its geopolitical and economic power.

sources:

Frank "The 21st century Will be Asian" Article

Economic Growth Will Be Asia by Fedelat

Is The Rise Of China Sustainable by Hung

Besides this, the lecture (in-person class) / module Video (online class) has also discussed American Power After Afghanistan and I have read that he withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan in August 2021 marked a significant moment in both American foreign policy and its global standing. The chaotic exit, which was widely criticized and raised questions about the effectiveness and future of U.S. military and geopolitical influence, had profound implications for American power. However, it also presents an opportunity for the U.S. to reassess its role in the world, pivot toward new strategic priorities, and redefine its approach to global leadership.

Another point the lecture (in-person class) / module Video (online class) has explored Is The American Century over video. I totally believe it is not because America can bounce back from the bottom to the top.

Finally, in the lecture (in-person class) / module

Video (online class) #, we have also examined The source of american power. he sources of American power are diverse and multifaceted, spanning across military, economic, diplomatic, cultural, and technological domains. Together, these sources enable the United States to exercise significant influence globally and maintain its leadership position in many areas.

Sources:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/5654ajsykuw8gg968r2jq/The-China-Challenge-Can-Help-America-Avert-Decline-_-Foreign-Affairs.pdf?dl=0&e=1&rlkey=ic8wdkdzi7zmp0r1rtse745kf

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/78hgeu61cb7yaq12zydej/American-Power-After-Afghanistan-_-Foreign-Affairs.pdf?rlkey=ugt2r3z5cc3fwvjdw9f43xvyy&e=1&dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/twh5lz96ce4o38ocj4djw/The-Sources-of-American-Power-_-Foreign-Affairs.pdf?rlkey=msi28wdd6nkhcuzjmggbubbxx&dl=0

Guess what's my answer? I would no maybe because The "American Century" in the traditional sense may be over, as the U.S. faces significant competition from rising powers like China and challenges at home and abroad. However, this does not mean that American power is waning or that the U.S. will lose its global influence. The U.S. is likely entering a new phase where its role will evolve, with an emphasis on alliances, technology, economic power, and global governance. While China and other powers may alter the balance of global influence, the U.S. remains a critical player in shaping the future of the international order.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/21/technology/china-united-states-artificial-intelligence.html