The Economic Times

Term of the Day: Thucydides Trap Meaning, origin, and is a U.S.China war inevitable?

Term of the Day: The Thucydides Trap describes the danger when a rising power (China) threatens a ruling power (USA). History shows this often ends in war. Currently, tensions over AI, chips, and Taiwan mirror this ancient stress. Yet, 2026 brings hope. High-level summits and mutual economic needs are creating a delicate equilibrium. War is a risk, but not a destiny. Leaders are choosing trade over tragedy.