In recent decades, China has become a quasi-capitalist economic powerhouse. Yet it continues to be ruled by the same Communist Party-dominated government that has been in power since 1949. But how has China's political system achieved such longevity? And what does its stability tell us about the future of authoritarian versus liberal democratic governance?

In this detailed analysis of the deeply intertwined relationship between the ruling Communist Party and governing state, noted China expert Teresa Wright provides insightful answers to these important questions. Though many believe that the Chinese party-state has maintained its power despite its communist and authoritarian features, Wright argues that the key to its sustained success lies in its careful safeguarding of some key communist and authoritarian characteristics, while simultaneously becoming more open and responsive to public participation. She contends that China's post-Mao party-state compares well to different forms of political rule, including liberal democratic government. It has fulfilled the necessary functions of a stable governing regime: satisfying key demographic groups and responding to public grievances; maintaining economic stability and growth; and delivering public services - without any real reduction in CCP power and influence.

Questioning current understandings of the nature, strengths, and weaknesses of democracy and authoritarianism, this thought-provoking book will be essential reading for all students and scholars of Chinese politics and international relations.

About the Author
Teresa Wright is Professor and Chair in the Department of Political Science at California State University, Long Beach

Reviews

"Much more than a textbook, this study is a sustained treatment of governance and political stability in China. In it, Teresa Wright provocatively suggests that the current regime, despite the many challenges it faces, may last longer than we think, not least because it has already carried out reforms that make it more "democratic," or at least accountable to the populace in ways that do not require free and fair elections."
Kevin J. O'Brien, University of California, Berkeley

"Teresa Wright is one of the most eloquent writers on contemporary China, and this book shows her at her best. By describing how political power is organized, obtained, and used in China, she is able to explain a key paradox of China today: how a regime can be authoritarian, lacking the rights and freedoms that many in the West take for granted, and at the same time legitimate in the eyes of many Chinese. Whereas many outside observers consider repression to be the main source of the Communist Party?s staying power, Wright shows how producing economic growth and political order, providing necessary goods and services, and addressing the changing wants and needs of an evolving society are also part of the solution to the puzzle of stable authoritarianism in China."
Bruce Dickson, George Washington University

Book Information
ISBN 9780745663852
Author Teresa Wright
Format Paperback
Page Count 200
Imprint Polity Press
Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Weight(grams) 363g
Dimensions(mm) 203mm * 145mm * 18mm