China’s Return: the Quest for a Socialist Future and the US’s Huge Miscalculation
May 25, 2023
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Dr. Ken Hammond, historian and activist, joins Brian Becker to discuss China's path to socialism. They explore China's revolution, economic structure, and governance. They delve into the Chinese political system, debunk misconceptions, and analyze the struggle for socialism. They highlight Xi Jinping's commitment to a socialist future and recommend Hammond's comprehensive book on Chinese history.
China is actively advancing and experimenting with new approaches to build socialism with Chinese characteristics under the leadership of Xi Jinping.
China's revolution is unique, adapting Marxist theory to address the specific conditions of China and liberate the Chinese people from imperialism.
China's economic reforms since 1978 have brought significant growth and prosperity, maintaining the goal of socialism while adapting to new challenges and realities.
Deep dives
The Chinese government's commitment to socialism with Chinese characteristics
The Chinese government and Communist Party are dedicated to building socialism with Chinese characteristics. This means working towards the goal of a socialist society and economy, eventually moving towards communism. Under the leadership of Xi Jinping, China is actively advancing and experimenting with new approaches, though challenges remain. The commitment to socialism with Chinese characteristics is an ongoing process, rooted in China's historical reality and aimed at liberating the Chinese people from exploitation and imperialism.
Understanding China's unique path to socialism
China's revolution is a result of its own history and conditions, distinct from Western models. The Chinese leadership has adapted and utilized Marxist theory and historical materialism to address the specific material realities of China. The revolutionary struggle in China has focused on liberating the Chinese people from imperialism and developing a socialist future. This process involves adapting universal truths of Marxism to the specific conditions of China, taking into account its historical, cultural, and economic context.
The progressive evolution of China's economic reforms
China's economic reforms, initiated under Deng Xiaoping in 1978, were aimed at developing the productive capacity of the economy. This involved using market mechanisms and engaging with the global economy while maintaining the leadership of the Communist Party and the goal of socialism. These reforms have brought significant economic growth and prosperity, lifting millions out of poverty. The process is seen as a continuation of the revolution's objectives, adapting to new challenges and realities while staying dedicated to building a socialist future.
The unique governance system in China
China's system of governance differs from Western models, reflecting its own history, culture, and circumstances. The practice of 'whole process democracy' involves continuous consultation, input from the masses, and a focus on staying in touch with the people's needs and aspirations. While elections exist, they operate differently from Western democracies, emphasizing broader participation and consultation with various mechanisms at the local, provincial, and national levels. China's governance system functions with the aim of meeting the needs of its people and ensuring social justice.
Working towards common prosperity and a socialist future
China's current leadership, led by Xi Jinping, reaffirms the goal of achieving common prosperity and building a socialist future. This ambition aligns with the Marxist idea of each according to their needs, where resources are distributed equitably based on individuals' requirements. The focus is on achieving a higher level of socialism and developing the productive forces to sustainably support this vision. While challenges remain, China's commitment to a socialist future and its ongoing quest for prosperity and equality is evident under the leadership of Xi Jinping.
Before it was colonized and divided, China was once the most powerful economy in the world. Today it is re-emerging as a leading force, under “socialism with Chinese characteristics.” What paths has China taken since the 1949 revolution and is the country still headed to socialism?
Brian Becker is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, activist with Pivot to Peace, and author of the new book “China's Revolution and the Quest for a Socialist Future,” which was just released at 1804books.com.
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