Which path the world might take

Abstract

Owing to its features of economic nationalism, trade protectionism, anti-establishment and white nationalism, Trump’s “America First” policy brought him to the White House but also divided the USA as a nation. The policy was essentially a response to the American populist movement created by the economic and cultural anxiety of the white working class. However, rather than fix the problem, Trump’s philosophy of governance may make the situation even worse and could provide China with a significant opportunity to strengthen itself in an era of great change.