1Dime Radio
How China Works (Ft. Jayne Hayward)
Mar 10, 2025
Jayne Hayward, a lecturer at the Lao China Institute, dives deep into the complexities of China's political economy. She sheds light on Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms and the shift from communes to a market economy. The conversation touches on the role of state planning and the evolving relationship between the Communist Party and capitalism. Hayward also discusses the ideological revival under Xi Jinping and the impacts of censorship on academia, revealing the nuanced dynamics shaping modern China.
01:40:33
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Quick takeaways
- The Tiananmen Square protests were fueled by deep societal unrest and disillusionment with corruption, rather than solely a desire for democracy.
- Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms marked China's transition towards capitalist elements while still maintaining state control over crucial sectors.
Deep dives
Driving Forces Behind Tiananmen Square
The events surrounding Tiananmen Square were driven by more than just a desire for democracy, as is often portrayed in Western media. The protests reflected deep societal unrest stemming from years of economic instability and perceived corruption among government officials. Many Chinese citizens were frustrated by the stark contrast between their struggles and the growing wealth of party elites. Thus, the movement was not solely about achieving liberal democracy but also about advocating for greater social protections and challenging the capitalist tendencies that were emerging within the state.
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