Both U.S. and Chinese leaders are guilty of personalizing the conflict-prone Sino-American relationship. Continuing down this path raises the question of which country is truly exceptional.
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, January 21, 2026. Credit: World Economic Forum via Flickr
The United States and China have long been the most prominent representatives of two opposing systems: democracy and socialism. But they increasingly share one crucial characteristic — personalized leadership — that blurs the otherwise sharp distinction between the two. This raises the important question: which country is truly exceptional?
The "shining city" mentioned in Reagan's farewell address, January 11, 1989. Credit: Reagan Library
American exceptionalism is, of cou
Exclusive longform investigative journalism, Q&As, news and analysis, and data on Chinese business elites and corporations. We publish China scoops you won't find anywhere else.
A weekly curated reading list on China from Andrew Peaple.
A daily roundup of China finance, business and economics headlines.
We offer discounts for groups, institutions and students. Go to our Subscriptions page for details.
After years of planning and investment, robotaxis are finally hitting the road in China. Accidents and the impact of self-driving vehicles on employment remain concerns, but the government remains committed to developing the industry into a global leader.
China’s five-year long property market woes have transformed the sector, but there are signs the government is determined to arrest the slide this year.
The economist explains why local governments’ debt woes are the key to China’s economic issues, and why the country could do with more Taylor Swift concerts.
Now on podcast platforms everywhere, The Wire China hits the airwaves to take you behind the scenes of the stories we cover each week. We are dedicated to understanding and explaining one of the biggest stories of our time: China’s economic rise and its influence on the world.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.OKPrivacy policy
