Cooperation or Competition? The Future of U.S. x China Relations
🌐 Can two rival superpowers cooperate their way out of humanity's biggest threats?
Crises of capitalism are pushing human civilization toward its breaking points, presenting what sociologist William Armaline calls overlapping threats to human survival: climate change and nuclear war, both potentially made worse by the destabilizing effects of frontier AI. Yet the conversation in Washington and Silicon Valley remains fixated on treating China as our greatest existential rival.
In this talk, Armaline, Professor of Sociology and founder of the Human Rights Institute at San José State University, argues that the world cannot survive this great power rivalry. Solving climate change, preventing nuclear war, and regulating dangerous new technologies will require real cooperation and coordination between the United States and China.
For the U.S., Armaline says, this means fundamentally rethinking its relationship with China and rejecting the traditional geopolitics of imperial competition. The good news, he argues, is that the American and Chinese people can achieve remarkable things together. 🕊️
🕰 Event Details
What should I expect?
7:00-7:35 --> arrival & chats
7:35-8:20 --> lecture
8:20-9:00 --> q&a and more chatting
Who's invited?
Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people came solo to our last event, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!
What about parking?
There's no parking on-site, so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.
Do I have to be 21+?
No :) This venue is open to all ages. If you'd like to purchase alcohol, you must be 21+ and present a valid ID.
Will this event be photographed or recorded?
Photos and short video clips may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded. We do not do full recordings of lectures at this time.
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🧾 Policies
The lecture is sold out! Can I join a waitlist?
Unfortunately, Luma does NOT support waitlists for paid events yet. We recommend checking back on the event site the day before / the day of the event! Attendees are likely to drop out.
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You can refund your ticket up to 24 hours before the event starts. Since this is a limited-space event, we encourage you to update your RSVP if you can’t make it—this helps us keep spots open for others. NOTE - you do NOT need to email us for a refund, we will issue one within 48 hours upon changing your RSVP to "Not Going" :)
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🧠 Community Guidelines
Big Brain events are designed to be welcoming, curious, and respectful spaces for learning and connection.
By attending, you agree to treat speakers, staff, venue employees, and fellow attendees with respect and to follow all venue rules and staff instructions.
Harassment, disruptive behavior, or excessive intoxication will not be tolerated. For the safety and comfort of everyone, Big Brain and the venue reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any attendee at any time, without refund, if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful.
🍸 Alcohol & Safety
Depending on the venue, alcohol may be sold and served exclusively by the venue in accordance with California law. Big Brain is not responsible or liable for alcohol service, overconsumption, or any actions resulting from intoxication. By attending, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with a public indoor event and agree that you are solely responsible for your own conduct, safety, and transportation before, during, and after the event.
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*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email hello@bigbrainlectures.com.