"the | Office" China(2010)

In " China " (Season 7, Episode 10), which originally aired on , Michael Scott becomes obsessed with China's rise as a global superpower after reading an article in the breakroom. Episode Summary

The episode follows two main storylines: Michael's misguided attempt to "stop" China and Pam's struggle with Dwight's draconian building management. "The Office" China(2010)

: In 2010, China officially surpassed Japan to become the world's second-largest economy . In " China " (Season 7, Episode 10),

: Pam eventually discovers that Dwight was aware of her bluff (she had no other building lined up) but allowed her to "win" a small concession to save face and keep her job, showing a rare moment of hidden compassion for his friend. Historical Context: China in 2010 : Pam eventually discovers that Dwight was aware

: Convinced that China will soon overtake the United States, Michael challenges the office to a debate. To his surprise, Oscar is the only one who can counter his hyperbolic claims with facts. Determined to win, Michael spends the day researching and eventually manages to stump Oscar with a technicality, earning him a hollow victory and the temporary title of the office's "intellectual."

: Tensions regarding currency valuation and trade deficits with the U.S. were frequent headlines in major publications like The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.