Breakneck

by Dan Wang
Breakneck cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Politics and Current Affairs
Technical
  • ID: 2676
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781802067804
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2025-08-26
  • Reviews: 3

For nearly a decade, Dan Wang has witnessed China's astonishing transformation, marked by monumental infrastructure projects and economic strides. However, this rapid change has also brought societal challenges. Wang blends political and economic analysis with on-the-ground reportage to present a unique perspective on China's engineering-driven state, contrasting it with America's lawyerly society. This insightful exploration reveals how each superpower can learn from the other to foster better societies. /n/nAs tensions between the US and China escalate, Wang's work provides a timely and inventive way to understand the complex relationship between these two global powers. By examining China's relentless drive for progress and America's legalistic governance, he argues for a world where both nations could benefit from each other's strengths, ultimately leading to a more balanced and prosperous future.

Reviews
The New Yorker · 2025-09-15
ambitious 4.00

Wang's account is ambitious and uses studies of Chinese innovation to highlight both strengths and weaknesses.

The reviewer from The New Yorker finds Wang's account ambitious and well-researched. They appreciate how Wang uses studies of Chinese innovation to show both the remarkable strengths and appalling weaknesses of the engineering state. The reviewer suggests that the book provides a nuanced look at China's quest to engineer the future, making it a valuable read for those interested in the topic. The central premise is seen as compelling, though it might not explain everything about China.

Quick quotes

    In this ambitious account, Wang, a technology analyst with a journalist's eye for color, uses studies of Chinese innovation to show how the two ...

    Breakneck reveals both the remarkable strengths and the appalling weaknesses of the engineering state.

    Wang's account of China is compelling, but his treatment of America is less convincing.

The Wall Street Journal · 2025-09-07
informative 3.50

The book contrasts China's speed in building with America's lawyerly society, highlighting significant differences.

The Wall Street Journal reviewer notes that Wang's book provides a stark contrast between China's ability to build at breakneck speed and America's more cautious, lawyerly approach. They appreciate the insight into the differences between the two systems, though the treatment of America is seen as less convincing. The reviewer finds the book informative and well-written, offering a compelling look at the strengths and weaknesses of both nations. The central premise is praised for its engaging and curious approach.

Quick quotes

    Wang observes, 'building big at breakneck speed, in contrast to the United States' lawyerly society, blocking everything it can, good and bad.'

    Breakneck reveals both the remarkable strengths and the appalling weaknesses of the engineering state.

    Wang's account of China is compelling, but his treatment of America is less convincing.

Noahpinion · Noah Smith · 2025-08-29
insightful 4.50

Dan Wang's writing is engaging and cannot be skimmed. The book delivers on the high expectations set by the author's previous work.

Noah Smith highlights that Dan Wang's writing style is so compelling that it demands full attention. They have been eagerly anticipating this book for over a year, and it lived up to their expectations. The reviewer appreciates the depth and insight provided by Wang, making the book a must-read for those interested in the subject matter. The central premise of the book is praised for its engaging and curious approach, though it might not explain everything about China.

Quick quotes

    Dan Wang's writing cannot be skimmed.

    I've been anticipating Dan's first book for over a year now, and it didn't disappoint.

    Breakneck is engaging and curious, well informed and well written.

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