Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the global competition and cooperation among major powers over the past 500 years, focusing on wealth creation and institutional innovation as key themes in the rise and fall of nations [2]. Group 1: Economic Interpretation of Major Powers' Rise and Fall - Qian Chengdan defines "world powers" as countries that significantly impact global development and changes in the world order since the formation of the capitalist world system [4]. - The nine world powers over the past 500 years are categorized into four types: mercantilist powers (Portugal, Spain, Netherlands), early industrialized powers (UK, France), capitalist powers (Germany, Japan), and 20th-century superpowers (Soviet Union, USA) [4]. - Each type of power is analyzed for its economic model innovations, with Portugal and Spain relying on early overseas exploration and colonial plunder, while the Netherlands emphasized commercial trade and financial innovation [4]. Group 2: Institutional Innovation as the Fundamental Driver - The rise of Western powers is attributed to the development model of "nation-state + mercantilism," with Portugal being the first world power to adopt this model [6]. - The UK's industrial revolution was facilitated by a favorable political and social environment post-Glorious Revolution, allowing individuals to pursue diverse interests [6]. - Germany and Japan's rise involved a different industrialization model, emphasizing effective resource allocation through state power, providing valuable lessons for developing countries [6]. Group 3: Historical Lessons on Overexpansion and Institutional Rigidity - The book analyzes the common causes of decline among major powers, such as overexpansion (e.g., Spanish Empire), institutional rigidity (e.g., late Soviet Union), and technological stagnation (e.g., Netherlands) [8]. - The rise and fall of major powers are closely linked to era changes, with the loss of leadership capacity leading to a decline in status [8]. - The current status of the USA can be summarized as "absolute advantage, relative decline," offering a historical perspective on future global economic growth [8]. Group 4: Insights for Chinese Modernization - The book provides insights for Chinese readers on modernization, emphasizing the need to build a modern state, develop a modern economy, and construct a modern society [10]. - It suggests that latecomer countries should not simply replicate Western paths but should explore innovative routes that align with their unique characteristics [10]. - In the context of the 21st century's "new world changes," four paths converge, forming a significant transformation not seen in a century [10].

Group 1 - The article discusses the announcement of the 2024 "Chinese Good Books," highlighting 42 selected works that meet high standards of thoughtfulness, artistry, and craftsmanship [6][7][8] - The selected books cover various categories including thematic publishing, humanities and social sciences, literature and arts, popular science, and children's literature, each showcasing unique characteristics and highlights [6][7][8] - Two "Honorary Books of the Year" focus on the study of Xi Jinping's cultural thoughts and his interactions with university students, reflecting the integration of mainstream ideological values [6][7] Group 2 - The thematic publishing books emphasize the study and implementation of Xi Jinping's cultural thoughts, showcasing their political and ideological significance [7][8] - The humanities and social sciences books explore traditional Chinese culture and its relevance to contemporary society, presenting a multi-faceted view of Chinese civilization [8][9] - Literature and arts books reflect the spirit of realism, drawing on contemporary social changes and historical narratives to convey deeper themes [9][10] Group 3 - The popular science books aim to enhance public scientific literacy, addressing various scientific phenomena and practical skills [10][11] - Children's literature is designed to help children establish correct values and good moral habits, presenting stories that inspire love and understanding [10][11] Group 4 - The article emphasizes the importance of reading these selected works to cultivate a deeper understanding of culture and to enrich one's spiritual realm [6][10]