How a Trade War With China Could Become a Hot War

In this episode of the Odd Lots podcast, hosts Joe Weisenthal and Tracy Alloway interview Dale Copeland, a professor of international politics at the University of Virginia, about the relationship between trade wars and hot wars. Copeland introduces his theory of "dynamic realism," arguing that trade can lead to either peace or conflict depending on expectations of future trade. He uses historical examples, such as Japan's aggression leading up to World War II and the American Revolution, to illustrate how negative trade expectations can drive conflict. The discussion covers the implications of tariffs, export controls, and China's economic strategy, including the Belt and Road Initiative, and its approach to Taiwan. Copeland suggests that understanding these dynamics and avoiding trade restrictions can help prevent major conflicts.