China-U.S Relations: Techno‑Nationalism, Strategic Entrapment, and Taiwan.

Author

• Prince Y. Munya Mr., CUNY City CollegeFollow

Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Department

International Relations

First Advisor

Jean Krasno

Second Advisor

Kimberly Gamble-Payne

Keywords

Techno-Nationalism, Strategic Entrapment, Taiwan

Abstract

Abstract

This thesis examines how China–U.S. relations evolved from a manageable strategic rivalry into a more rigid and increasingly difficult form of competition after the Obama administration’s “Pivot to Asia.” It argues that traditional explanations such as power transition theory alone cannot fully explain the deterioration of the relationship. Instead, the study introduces the concept of techno-nationalism, where technological leadership becomes tied to national identity, economic security, and geopolitical power, particularly in areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and supply-chain security. Through historical analysis and policy tracing, the thesis develops the concept of strategic entrapment to explain how both Washington and Beijing have become politically and institutionally constrained from de-escalating rivalry, even when continued escalation produces diminishing strategic benefits. Taiwan serves as the central case study because it sits at the intersection of geopolitical competition and technological dependence through its critical role in the global semiconductor industry. Ultimately, the thesis argues that contemporary China–U.S. competition is becoming structurally rigid, limiting diplomatic flexibility and making stabilization increasingly difficult without addressing the deeper political and technological forces driving the rivalry.

Recommended Citation

Munya, Prince Y. Mr., "China-U.S Relations: Techno‑Nationalism, Strategic Entrapment, and Taiwan." (2026). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cc_etds_theses/1312