The term industrial maximalism in the Chinese context refers to a development philosophy that prioritizes the establishment of a "complete industrial system". This ideology suggests that a nation must develop every possible type of industry that exists globally, regardless of its starting point, to ensure national independence and scientific leadership. The Rise of the "Industrial Party" In the 2000s and 2010s, an online intellectual movement known as the Industrial Party emerged in Chinese forums. This group champions: Technological Determinism: The belief that a country’s political and social strength is a direct function of its industrial and technological output. Scale over Efficiency: According to scholars like Lu Feng, having a massive and diverse industrial base is a prerequisite for innovation, as advancements in one sector (e.g., semiconductors) drive progress in others through "complementary relationships".
steve hsu
steve hsuJan 29, 2026
Industrial Maximalism and Its Discontents: Dan Wang on US-China Competition – Manifold #104 Great conversation with @danwwang at Hoover. 0:00 - Introduction and Welcome 02:14 - Breakneck - Dan's huge book 05:00 - China's Technological and Political Landscape 21:07 - Industrial Maximalism and its Discontents 47:59 - Chinese Researchers in Silicon Valley and Tsinghua 51:09 - Excerpts from Dan's 2025 annual letter 52:56 - China's Market Competition and Innovation 56:34 - AI, Automation, and Future Risks
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