Document Type
Thesis
First Faculty Advisor
Mary Anne K. Clarke
Second Faculty Advisor
John Dietrich
Keywords
international relations; decoupling; technology; U.S.-China
Publisher
Bryant University
Rights Management
CC - BY - NC - ND
Abstract
Technology has transformed the world with the help of increasing advancements in semiconductor technology. This results in countries seeking a steady supply of semiconductors globally. This thesis investigates why the United States and China have implemented a mix of technological "decoupling" policies to prioritize semiconductors. The theoretical research for this thesis utilizes international relations perspectives and concepts as a framework to examine the root causes behind these policies. By using qualitative text analysis to code sources based on international relations theories, a series of direct evidence is presented to show the causes behind these policies. Furthermore, the concepts and direct evidence under each perspective are assessed to see how well each perspective explains technological decoupling. In short, the realist theory did the best job at explaining why these policies were implemented. In addition, this thesis demonstrates how multiple perspectives link together, as well as how the historical context is crucial to understanding technological decoupling. Finally, this thesis argues for a broader international relations framework, and it highlights two newer approaches to analyze complex global issues, such as decoupling.
Comments
In short, this thesis was completed as part of my political science minor, and to fulfill the Honors Program requirements at Bryant University. It uses international relations theories to explain the reasons why the United States and China have implemented technological "decoupling" policies, with a particular focus on export controls, the CHIPS and Science Act, and Made in China 2025.