Great Decisions - Decoding U.S.-China Trade

The Great Decisions Series is a part of the Great Decisions World Education Program.  Experts offer presentations on global issues and U.S. foreign policy.  

Though arguably the most advanced economy in the world, the United States still uses centuries-old numbers to measure trade.  These antique numbers mangle understanding of the U.S. -China trade relationship, shrinking America's true economic size and competitiveness, while swelling China's.  Bad numbers give rise to bad policies tht ultimately kill U.S. jobs and cede market sheare to China.  What other tools can the United States employ to counter China's unfair trade practices?

Martin Farrell, PhD, was born in Winona, MN, and graduated from Winona Senior High School.  He earned his BA in Political Science from DePauw University in Greencastle, IN and his MA and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago, in International Relations and Political Science, respectively.  He began his teaching career with visiting positions at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, The College of William and Mary, and Hampton University. From 1976 through 2016, he taught comparative politics and global studies at Ripon College.  He is the author of over 50 peer – reviewed conference papers, periodical articles, encyclopedia entries and book chapters. He has led student and alumni study – abroad experiences eight times, and has personally studied and done research in 45 countries on five continents. In 2015, he was recognized as Wisconsin Peace Educator of the Year by the Wisconsin Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies.  At Ripon, he also co – directed an International Film Series which to date has brought over 700 international films to the Ripon campus. In terms of public service, Marty has served on the City of Ripon Police and Fire Commission and has represented the city of Ripon on the Fond du Lac County Board of Supervisors since 1994 and is currently in his fourteenth year as Board Chair.