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At the beginning of the 21st century, China stands poised to become a global superpower. With the world’s largest population, a rapidly growing economy, and increased political and military influence, symbolized by its hosting of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China fully expects to assume a major position in world affairs in the decades to come. But China’s growing power raises considerable uncertainties about its future direction. Will its rulers be able to continue to promote capitalist-style economic reforms while maintaining a communist political system? Will China succeed in resolving the issues of Taiwan and Tibet without war? Will it find itself in growing competition and possible conflict with the United States over trade and military supremacy? Will its rapid population and economic growth further imperil its already deteriorated environment? And how will these monumental changes impact its Asian neighbours and the rest of the world?

Students will take part in a round-table discussion about China’s history, current situation, and likely future prospects. They will research one of the following topics in preparation.

1. Modernization in China under Mao Zedong
2. Economic and political reforms since the death of Mao
3. China’s growing relations with the rest of the world
4. China’s population growth and its national and international impact
5. China as a military superpower
6. Changes in China’s political system
7. China’s environmental crisis
8. China and the world in the 21st century

Hold a round-table discussion in which students present their information and relate it to China’s ongoing development. Have students discuss the impact of the changes that have occurred and are still taking place in China on that country’s future and on the rest of the world. Students should consider these questions: Are the changes that China is experiencing an example of revolution or evolution? What further changes are likely to