Andrew Mertha, a prominent expert in China Studies and the director of the SAIS China Research Center, introduces a new series focusing on the complexities of studying Chinese elite politics. He discusses the necessity of adapting research methodologies in light of access restrictions and highlights the intricate political dynamics during Deng Xiaoping's leadership. Mertha critiques existing literature, emphasizes the need for nuanced perspectives, and explores the critical role of historical context in understanding contemporary governance under Xi Jinping.
01:15:23
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Formative Essay
Frederick Teiwes recalls a college English class assignment that profoundly influenced his approach to studying China.
The theme, "We only see what we look for, we only look for what we know," highlighted the danger of confirmation bias in research.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Mining for Insights
Studying Chinese politics requires sifting through vast amounts of information to find valuable insights, much like mining.
Teiwes emphasizes the importance of persistence and discernment in research.
insights INSIGHT
Rethinking Reform
The narrative of Deng Xiaoping single-handedly launching reforms at the Third Plenum is inaccurate.
Hua Guofeng played a more significant role than commonly acknowledged.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
In "The End of the Maoist Era," Frederick Teiwes and Warren Sun offer a comprehensive analysis of the period following Mao Zedong's death. The book examines the political, economic, and social transformations that occurred during this critical juncture in Chinese history. Teiwes and Sun's meticulous research and insightful interpretations shed light on the power struggles and policy debates that shaped the post-Mao era. The book provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges and complexities of transitioning from Maoist rule. It is a valuable resource for scholars and students of Chinese history and politics. The book's insights remain relevant for understanding contemporary China.
Paradoxes of Post-Mao Rural Reform
Warren Sun
Frederick C. Teiwes
In "Paradoxes of Post-Mao Rural Reform," Frederick Teiwes and Warren Sun explore the complexities of agricultural reforms in post-Mao China. The book examines the challenges and contradictions inherent in transitioning from a collectivized agricultural system to a more market-oriented approach. Teiwes and Sun's analysis is grounded in meticulous research and insightful interpretations of historical events. The book provides a nuanced understanding of the successes and failures of rural reforms. It is a valuable resource for scholars and students of Chinese economic history and policy. The book's insights remain relevant for understanding contemporary rural development in China.
Hua Guofeng, Deng Xiaoping, and the Dismantling of Maoism
Hua Guofeng, Deng Xiaoping, and the Dismantling of Maoism
null
Warren Sun
Frederick Teiwes
Leadership, Legitimacy, and Conflict in China
Leadership, Legitimacy, and Conflict in China
null
Frederick Teiwes
Warren Sun
Frederick Teiwes's "Leadership, Legitimacy, and Conflict in China" delves into the intricate interplay of leadership, legitimacy, and conflict within the Chinese political system. The book examines how these factors have shaped the trajectory of Chinese politics over time. Teiwes's analysis is grounded in meticulous research and insightful interpretations of historical events. The book provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and complexities faced by Chinese leaders in maintaining power and legitimacy. It is a valuable resource for scholars and students of Chinese politics. The book's insights remain relevant for understanding contemporary Chinese politics.
Politics at Mao's Court
Politics at Mao's Court
null
Warren Sun
Frederick Teiwes
Frederick Teiwes's "Politics at Mao's Court" provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the Chinese Communist Party during Mao Zedong's era. The book masterfully blends political analysis with historical context, offering a rich understanding of the power dynamics and decision-making processes within the party's highest echelons. Teiwes's meticulous research and insightful interpretations bring to life the personalities and conflicts that shaped Chinese politics. The book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of Maoist China. Its detailed account of leadership meetings and interactions offers a unique perspective on the period.
The Magisterial Politics and Purges in China, 1979
The Magisterial Politics and Purges in China, 1979
null
Frederick Teiwes
Warren Sun
Frederick Teiwes's "The Magisterial Politics and Purges in China, 1979" offers a detailed analysis of Chinese elite politics during a pivotal period of transition. The book meticulously reconstructs the dynamics of power struggles and purges within the Chinese Communist Party. Teiwes's work is characterized by its rigorous scholarship and insightful interpretations of historical events. It provides valuable context for understanding the complexities of Chinese political life. The book's insights remain relevant for scholars and students of Chinese politics today.
This week, I bring you the first in a series of podcasts in conjunction with the China Research Center at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). The series, titled "Studying China in the Absence of Access: Rediscovering a Lost Art," ran from September to November 2021, and featured four eminent "Pekingologists," or specialists in Chinese elite politics: Joseph Fewsmith, Thomas Fingar, Alice Miller, and Fred Teiwes. The talks were later published in a volume you can download here. The series is introduced by Andrew Mertha, George and Sadie Hyman, Professor of China Studies and director of the SAIS China Research Center, and each lecture includes a moderated discussion with Andy. After this series, I'll also be sharing with you a second series of lectures titled "Studying China from Elsewhere," which will include talks by Maria Repnikova, Mike Lampton, William Hurst, and Maggie Lewis — many of whom Sinica listeners will know from the show.
This week's talk is from FrederickTeiwes, truly a legend in the field. The American-born Australian sinologist is best known for his analysis of Chinese Communist Party elite politics. He served as a professor emeritus in Government and International Relations at the University of Sydney until his retirement in 2006. Teiwes has frequently collaborated with Warren Sun, producing seminal works such as The Tragedy of Lin Biao (1996) and China’s Road to Disaster: Mao, Central Politicians and Provincial Leaders in the Great Leap Forward, 1955-59 (1999). In this talk, he focuses on forthcoming work on the transition following Mao Zedong's death in 1976.
Great thanks to Andy and to Hasta Colman, who first suggested this collaboration when we met in Shanghai recently.
Sinica Podcast 
