> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://laurence-wilse-samson.gitbook.io/textbooks/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://laurence-wilse-samson.gitbook.io/textbooks/economic-coercion/introduction.md).

# Economic Coercion in the 21st Century

**Tools, Strategies, and Great Power Competition**

**Author:** Laurence Wilse-Samson **Affiliation:** New York University, Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service (NYU Wagner)

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This textbook examines economic coercion by states in the context of strategic competition. Its primary focus is the US-China rivalry, with applications to other geographies, including US-Soviet Cold War cases and contemporary examples.

## Companion Game

A companion browser-based strategy game, **EconWar**, lets readers play out economic-coercion scenarios from multiple national perspectives, including U.S., Chinese, European, and Global South decision-makers. It operationalizes the frameworks developed in this book.

Play the game: [econwar.vercel.app](https://econwar.vercel.app/)

The game is designed to be used alongside the tabletop exercises in Appendix A, allowing readers to move from structured classroom simulations to open-ended solo play.

## Purpose

This book serves three audiences:

1. **Policymakers and practitioners** - Practical reference for understanding tools and strategies
2. **Students and educators** - Comprehensive textbook with exercises and teaching materials
3. **Analysts and researchers** - Data sources, case studies, and analytical frameworks

## Special Features

Each chapter includes:

* **Executive Summary** - Practitioner-focused key takeaways
* **Government Tools Boxes** - Detailed authorities, mechanisms, and examples
* **Perspective Boxes** - Chinese and other international viewpoints
* **Maps and Data Visualizations** - Strategic geography and trends
* **Case Studies** - Real-world applications with lessons learned
* **Tabletop Exercises** - Practical scenario-based learning
* **Data Sources** - Comprehensive guide to databases and tracking tools

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*Last Updated: July 2026*