Writing a book is a professional and personal challenge, perhaps more so when the topic at hand is close to your heart. China has never ceased to fascinate me, as did reactions from politicians, business people, workers, and academics around the world that over the three decades of my “China watching” shifted from indifference to curiosity and now to enthusiasm—or alarm. In this book, I have tried, and hopefully succeeded, in putting “the China debate” in context. In so doing, I was fortunate to obtain the views, insights, and advice of many individuals in China, the United States, and elsewhere, for which I am grateful. While it is impossible to mention all, I would like to note Dan Chow, who introduced me to the legal aspects of product piracy, and Brian Renwick, who together with a number of anonymous reviewers was instrumental in setting the record straight when my enthusiasm got in the way. At Wharton Publishing, Tim Moore has been the driving force behind the book, from a concept to a finished product. Sarah Kearns has been a wonderful production editor, with endless patience for the “technologically challenged.” Martin Litkowski of Pearson, John Grimaldi of the Dilenschneider Group, and Laura Bowers at the Fisher College have all been very helpful in getting the word out. The Dean of the Fisher College, Joe Alutto, the Chairman of the MHR Department, David Greenberger, and Steve Hills and Cheryl Ryan at the CIBER office have all been helpful in providing me with the right work environment.

Last but not least, my family. My wife Miriam has not only put up with my China interests but has been a source of professional and personal inspiration. My children Keshet and Joshua helped me see China through a teenager's and a child's eye, while younger Rakefet (Riki) keeps me focused on the future, in China and beyond. My love and gratitude goes to them all.