Sam Olsen
After the West: How China Is Reshaping the World Order
Forthcoming from Profile Books, May 2027
What happens when the rules of the world we have taken for granted begin to change?
For centuries, Western powers have shaped the systems through which the modern world operates, from international trade and finance to technology, communications and the rules governing relations between states.
China is now acquiring the power not simply to challenge Western dominance, but to reshape those systems themselves.
After the West tells the story of how the Western-led order was built, why it is coming under pressure and what a more China-shaped world might look like. Drawing on history and original geopolitical research, it explores how this transformation could affect everyday life, from employment and economic prosperity to artificial intelligence, personal freedoms and the relationship between citizens and the state.
Above all, it asks what choices remain for the West, and whether the future international order has already been decided.
Writing & Ideas
Through his States of Play Substack, Sam examines the geopolitical, economic and technological forces transforming international affairs.
His essays explore China's growing influence, the future of Western power, artificial intelligence, globalisation and the strategic choices facing governments and societies.
His writing combines historical perspective with contemporary analysis, making complex geopolitical developments accessible to a wider audience.
Research & Expertise
Sam is Chief Analyst at Sibylline, a one of the world's leading geopolitical intelligence and advisory firms, and a Simon Industrial Fellow at the University of Manchester.
His research focuses on China–Western relations, international power and influence, artificial intelligence, economic security and the changing relationships between states. He advises governments and senior business leaders on geopolitical competition, technological change and long-term strategic risk.
Previously, he founded and led geopolitical research organisations, spent more than a decade living and working in Asia, served as a Legislative Fellow in the United States Senate and was a British Army captain and intelligence officer.
His work has been published internationally, and he regularly lectures and speaks to government, academic and business audiences.
Read Biography | Research & Publications
Speaking & Enquiries
Sam speaks and writes on China's rise, the future of the international order, artificial intelligence and the geopolitical forces shaping the twenty-first century.
For speaking engagements, interviews, media and professional enquiries, please get in touch.
