Why Silicon Chips Matter: Technology, Power, and the Next Global Rivalry
This lecture explores the fascinating history of silicon chips—and why these tiny pieces of technology now sit at the center of global power, economic growth, and geopolitics, including what many are calling Cold War 2.0: the United States vs. China.
Based on in-depth research conducted in 2025, this live presentation offers a clear, big-picture view of how chips evolved, why they matter far beyond computers, and how they are shaping the future of innovation, national security, and global competition.
No technical background is required. Complex ideas will be explained in plain language, with real-world examples that make the topic intuitive and engaging for everyone—while still offering meaningful insights for engineers and technologists.
The session will be highly interactive, with ample time for questions and discussion.
If you’ve ever wondered:
What exactly is a silicon chip?
Why does it matter so much?
How did it become central to the U.S.–China rivalry?
This lecture will connect the dots and make it all finally make sense.
Host: Naeem Zafar ‘81
