Global System Flashcards
What major geopolitical shift is expected between 2025–2055?
China is expected to surpass the US in economic and military influence, reshaping global power.
What will happen to Western influence if China dominates the global economy?
The West (US, UK, Australia) will have reduced control over trade, security, and global rules, making them more dependent on China’s policies.
What would a China-led world mean for democratic freedoms?
Increased censorship, digital surveillance, and state-controlled economies could become the global norm.
By what year might China surpass the US as the world’s largest economy?
Around 2035.
What is ‘The Big List’?
A structured set of the top 50 global issues that impact economies, security, technology, and society.
What is the #1 global challenge today?
Climate Change & Environmental Degradation.
Why are Geopolitical Tensions & Armed Conflicts increasing?
Global power shifts, resource scarcity, and military advancements.
How does Global Economic Inequality impact the world?
It drives instability, migration, and economic conflicts.
Why is Technological Advancement & AI a major global force?
AI is reshaping industries, jobs, and even warfare.
What is Democratic Backsliding & Authoritarianism?
The global trend of governments restricting freedoms and increasing control.
Why are Public Health Crises & Pandemics a global risk?
New diseases, antibiotic resistance, and global travel spread infections faster.
What are the biggest Cybersecurity Threats today?
AI-driven cyber attacks, ransomware, and critical infrastructure hacking.
How is Energy Transition & Sustainability shaping the future?
The world must shift from fossil fuels to renewables to avoid economic collapse.
Why is Water Scarcity becoming a major crisis?
Population growth and climate change are depleting clean water sources.
How do Global Supply Chain Disruptions affect everyday life?
Shortages, higher costs, and economic instability due to reliance on China.
What is Quantum Computing, and why does it matter?
It will revolutionize security, AI, and problem-solving at an unimaginable scale.
Why is Blockchain & Cryptocurrency important for the future?
Decentralization could challenge traditional banks and governments.
How will AI & Automation affect jobs?
Millions of jobs will disappear while new AI-driven industries emerge.
Why is Space Exploration & Militarization becoming critical?
Nations are racing to control space for military and economic dominance.
What is Post-Quantum Cryptography, and why does it matter?
A new form of encryption needed to withstand quantum computing threats.
What is driving the global Mental Health Crisis?
Social media, economic stress, and lifestyle changes.
How does Education Access & Quality impact global development?
The knowledge gap is widening between the rich and poor.
Why is Gender Equality & Women’s Rights still a major issue?
Many countries still restrict women’s freedoms and economic participation.
What are the biggest LGBTQ+ Rights & Inclusion challenges today?
Legal and social discrimination in many countries.
Why does Racial Justice & Anti-Discrimination remain a key global issue?
Systemic discrimination still affects economies, politics, and daily life.
What are the main causes of Financial Crises & Economic Instability?
Over-leveraging, inflation, and political instability.
Why are Trade Wars & Protectionism increasing?
Nations are prioritizing their own economies over globalization.
What role does Corruption & Governance play in global instability?
Corrupt governments weaken economies and increase inequality.
Why is Nuclear Proliferation & Disarmament still a major concern?
New AI-driven weapons and global tensions make nuclear war more likely.
What are the best career paths for the next 20 years?
AI, cybersecurity, renewable energy, robotics, and high-tech engineering.
What skills should kids develop to succeed in a China-dominated economy?
Entrepreneurial skills, digital privacy awareness, AI-driven work adaptability.
What are the best business opportunities in the future economy?
AI-powered consulting, digital tech businesses, cybersecurity, and financial services.
How can families prepare for an uncertain future?
Develop self-reliance, critical thinking, and adaptability to economic and political shifts.
What happens if China replaces the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency?
The US and UK economies could crash, leading to inflation, higher costs, and wealth decline.
How can individuals protect their wealth from economic instability?
Invest in real estate, commodities (gold, energy), AI stocks, and diversify assets globally.
Why is personal debt dangerous in an unstable economy?
If inflation rises and economies decline, repaying debt becomes harder, increasing financial risk.
How can families protect themselves from increased digital tracking?
Use encrypted messaging apps, VPNs, and limit personal data exposure online.
What are the safest regions to live in for future stability?
Australia, select US states (Texas, Florida, Midwest), and possibly New Zealand.
Why is Australia a better long-term bet than the UK?
Australia has stronger resource security, a more resilient economy, and a lower dependence on the US for stability.
Which US states are best positioned for economic resilience?
Texas, Florida, and the Midwest—due to strong economies, low debt, and strategic industries.
Why might the UK face serious economic challenges?
The UK is losing global influence, depends on imports, and could be pressured by China’s economic policies.
What are the most urgent decisions for securing your family’s future?
Decide where to live (Australia or stable US states), secure financial independence, and prepare for global economic shifts.
How can families future-proof their financial security?
Hold globally diversified assets, invest in high-growth industries, and avoid unnecessary debt.
Why is digital privacy becoming a priority?
Governments and corporations are increasing surveillance, making privacy protection essential for freedom.
Should Mandarin be a priority for learning?
Not essential, but useful for business, finance, and trade in a China-led world.