Abstract
TikTok, a widely used social media platform, and semiconductor imports from the People’s Republic of China (China), critical to the United States of America (US) technology infrastructure, are raising questions regarding national security vulnerabilities and technological dependence. As a result, both TikTok and semiconductors imported from China have been subject to geopolitical dynamics and regulatory scrutiny. By employing a controlled comparison case study method, this research investigates the impact of the security dilemma between the US and China on US federal government regulations concerning TikTok and semiconductors imported from China. This research uses military spending data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) to assess increases in military spending by both states, which can be indicative of a heightened security dilemma. This research found a correlation between the escalation of the security dilemma between the US and China and increased regulatory measures imposed by the US federal government on TikTok and semiconductors imported from China. Heightened tensions between the two states tend to coincide with stricter regulations aimed at safeguarding US interests and mitigating perceived national security risks associated with TikTok and semiconductors imported from China. The implications for US-China relations is that as the security dilemma between the US and China escalates, regulatory measures are likely to become more stringent. As for implications for broader US-China relations, sustained efforts to manage the security dilemma could contribute to stability and peace in US-China relations, by fostering greater trust and cooperation in technology trade and regulations.
Advisor
Lantis, Jeffrey
Department
Political Science
Recommended Citation
Gelaw, Rahel, "The Security Dilemma Between the United States and China and its Implications for United States Regulations of TikTok and Semiconductors" (2024). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 11093.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/11093
Keywords
Security Dilemma, Technology Regulations, Technology Trade, United States, China, TikTok, Semiconductors
Publication Date
2024
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2024 Rahel Gelaw