I don't get why anyone would be surprised. Like most previous superpowers, the US got to the top with a mixture of chance, good timing and luck. A lot of people thought that the US wouldn't be able to maintain "world leading superpower" as long as, say, Britain did, and while I think the west are (probably) in far better hands with the US in charge, I can't see it lasting.
It all comes down to this: China has a different work ethic to the west. I watched an interview with the guy who choreographed the Beijing Olympic opening ceremony, and his point was that places like London couldn't compete (in performing arts) because there are too many trade unions, people work to different timescales, and there are too many health and safety issues. Well, that's what he meant. What he said was along the lines of "English people are lazy, they only start at 8, they take 6 breaks a day, and go home at 6". Imagine their attitude toward business and military. It's potentially amazing what people can do with no human rights, no "freedom" and cheap value of life. And you know what? I don't necessarily think it's a bad thing.
