Its scientists produce some of the world’s best research, particularly in chemistry, physics and materials science. They contribute to more papers in prestigious journals than their colleagues from America and the European Union and they produce more work that is highly cited. China’s best universities are world-class.
That poses a dilemma for America and its allies. Cutting-edge science produces knowledge that benefits all humanity. However, a more innovative China may also thrive in fields with military uses, such as quantum computing or hypersonic weapons.
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