A discussion on Xi Jinping's increasing power in China, comparing it to Mao Zedong's era. Analysis of Xi Jinping's vision for reshaping the international order and enforcing the study of his ideology. Exploring the implications of centralized power and policy-making under Xi Jinping's leadership.
Xi Jinping aims to establish his thought as a modern interpretation of Marxism with Chinese characteristics, emphasizing its influence across all aspects of life in China.
Under Xi Jinping, China's political system resembles an upgraded software with a Sino-centric approach, strategically reshaping global institutions and seeking support from the 'global south'.
Deep dives
Xi Jinping's Thought as a Modern Interpretation of Marxism
Xi Jinping aims for his thought to be a modern and advanced interpretation of Marxism with Chinese characteristics, emphasizing its influence over every aspect of life in China. Unlike previous leaders, Xi sees his thought as comparable only to Mao Zedong's, focusing on national rejuvenation and the consolidation of power under one leader.
Evolution of China's Political System under Xi Jinping
Under Xi Jinping, the Chinese political system has maintained its Communist Party foundation but has seen operational changes similar to upgrading computer software. Xi's thought directs China towards a Sino-centric approach, intending to assert influence globally and reshape international institutions favorably towards China.
Challenges and Nuances in Xi Jinping's Policy Implementation
While Xi Jinping's thought articulates ambitious goals for China, its execution lacks consistent policy details due to Xi's pragmatic and ideological tendencies. Xi aims to alter the international order by cultivating support from the 'global south' to counter Western dominance. However, Xi's centralized leadership approach potentially hinders China's path to rejuvenation by limiting collective input and increasing policy mistakes.
Chinese politics have been transformed since Xi Jinping became paramount leader in 2012. He has accumulated power in a way unprecedented since the era of Mao Zedong and he expects China's people to study his ideology, just as Chairman Mao's supporters studied his 'Little Red Book'. Professor Steve Tsang, Director of the SOAS China Institute, and Olivia Cheung, Research Fellow at the SOAS China Institute, have co-authored a new book on the philosophy of the Chinese leader, 'The Political Thought of Xi Jinping', which was recently published by Oxford University Press. In this podcast, Professor Tsang discusses the book's themes with Isabel Hilton, visiting Professor at King's College London and the founder of China Dialogue.