Yes, to argue your point of view, the technological distance between the West and China has shortened considerably. I still believe China is incapable of important innovation with the CCP in place; nontheless, they could disconnect from the West without anyone noticing too much. The difference between and iPhone and a Haiwai phone, functionally, isn't life ending ;)

Anyway, all your points hit home with me. People don't riot over technology. They do riot over energy or food shortages. And the U.S. is playing with global fire in ways I'm sure I don't have to explain to you.