Final Blog Entry

Over the course of this semester we investigated China’s many exploits with an emphasis on their methods of acquiring natural resources as well as how their constant pushes for power affects dynamics in the West. Starting with Africa we studied how China is laying the seeds of infrastructure while extracting natural resources leaving both parties happy. In South America China is using the same technique to fashion good will and establish long term trading partners. Next we moved to Europe where China has begun the shift from cheap mass-produced goods to manufactured items. Then we turned home and discovered that China is buying up massive amounts of American real estate as well as American businesses creating a powerful presence that cannot be ignored. During our research we reflected on how China’s economic leaps are affecting the global spheres of power.

Before each week’s post we would have a group meeting where we shared and analyzed research we had done individually earlier in the week. At this meeting we would choose a geographical location where China’s power plays are taking place and elect a member to write that week’s post. By working as a group we were able to produce different grounds of thought as well as massive amounts of information about our topic. Being in a group allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of my topic by forcing me to see different points of view.

            I have learned a great about China as well as expanding my schools of thought. Coming from America it is interesting to see how effective a state run capitalist system can be, especially when used in conjunction with long-term investments and smart diplomatic moves. I feel I am better able to differentiate between reliable scholarly resources and media articles designed to entertain for a few minutes. Working in a group with new people can be challenging, but good communication is key to creating a seamless product. Overall I’d say this project was a success I learned a great deal about an extremely important issue as well as creating relationships with my peers.