Industrial Policy & Economic Security Conference: Session 5

The podcast features Jason Furman moderating a discussion between Dan Wang and Jeff Ding about the AI race between the U.S. and China. Dan argues that while the U.S. currently leads in AI, China is rapidly catching up, particularly in power production and talent pool. He suggests that China's focus on manufacturing could give it a strategic advantage. Jeff emphasizes that economic productivity is key and that AI, as a general-purpose technology, requires a diffusion-oriented strategy. He believes the U.S. is well-positioned for AI diffusion due to its broader AI engineering skill base. The conversation explores whether the AI race is zero-sum, the effectiveness of chip controls, and the potential for a bubble in the AI sector. The speakers also touch on Europe's role and the importance of openness versus strategic leverage in AI development.