China and Taiwan: Escalation and Display

China's escalatory behavior in response to a recent visit by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi indicates a level of seriousness as it relates to the island of Taiwan and as a display of China's growing military strength. The strategy of isolation is a simulation but definitely a sign they would isolate the island under certain circumstances. There were multiple purposes that include signaling intent, displaying capabilities, and a direct challenge over their "sphere of influence".

We are at a place where as a nation we should become increasingly strategic about our choices and options. Thus behaviors should be deliberate and well thought out. Our time to start moving down the line of national development is needed. While we still hold some strategic advantages economically and militarily they are not in a comfortable margin. Doing nothing is no longer an option (We had this complacency problem for 20+ years and move our knowledge overseas, didn't maximize our human capital, and in many ways didn't see opportunities that would have allowed for smaller corrections.)

The problem is that from a political standpoint we have a hard time getting different sides to focus on what is most important for their country and people (Many are interested more in pleasing personalities within their specific demographic supporters or party stakeholders without thinking about the wider needs of society and democracy in general). National development should be a primary concern (Economic, innovation, education, advanced manufacturing, research, etc...basically some national development concepts I have been bringing up from time to time. Economic Cluster), bi-partisan solutions will get us moving (Greatest Threats Decisions and Human Capital), and universalizing our institutions will grease the wheels of human motivation and restore the power of Capitalism (Econ-Psychological Needs). 

(I think we will master these challenges but will do so as response to increased environmental pressure versus proactive looking "over the horizon" intentionality. Once the ball starts rolling it will grow because we know its really the only path forward that leads to the greatest options. If there is one thing Americans are good at is putting the full force of human freedom to overcome unique challenges. I advocate for general national development and solidarity of purpose in preserving our democratic way of life. This isn't specific to any conflict (China or Russia) but to the need to continuously develop and grow. i.e. learning organization that evolves Red Queen. We will need our leaders to be serious about governance, the type of people we select to those lead positions (best and brightest versus "connected"), and our ability to rally around our central American values. We don't need people tearing us apart for their own selfish needs or eroding our strength through political nepotism. We have to perform in these positions to maximize our resources. I know! I know! I'm an "idealist" with a Muslim sounding name....probably a dumb idea! Some don't feel with that with a Muslim sounding name I'm not even qualified to work a part-time adjunct class at a local community college. 🤔 So you might want to think things through for yourself and come to your own conclusions.  🤷)