China Copying Narrative - Notes on DeepSeek

Historical dismissal of Chinese innovation as mere copying, now China leads in EVs batteries solar drones, argument that starting from others' work and improving is legitimate, comparison to generic products in US markets

The historical dismissal of Chinese innovation as mere low-quality copying is being challenged by the nation’s current dominance in high-tech sectors like EVs, batteries, and solar energy. Commenters argue that building upon existing work is a strategic advantage rather than a lack of creativity, as starting from an established foundation allows for faster, more cost-effective improvements. Furthermore, there is a perceived hypocrisy in Western criticism, with observers noting that US markets are filled with generic derivatives that rarely face the same level of scrutiny. Ultimately, China’s ability to maintain affordability while leading these industries suggests that the "copycat" narrative has been superseded by genuine global leadership.

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In every market China dominates, Chinese products are still inexpensive. Solar panels, batteries, EVs, drones,..

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This is literally a repeat of the whole “China only make low quality cheap stuff” argument.

“All they do is copy.”

And now, oops they are world leaders in EVs, batteries, solar, drones, just to name a few on the biggest consumer facing things.

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"Success leaves clues"

You gotta start somewhere and you can start at page 1 or page 10 and that time, energy and cost you saved starting 9 pages later can be put into making whatever it is you're building better than the original.

The US, and every other country, is full of derivatives or straight up copies. No one is getting super mad at the generic cheerios at the grocery store. It's hypocrisy.