Actually Existing Socialism Is China a democracy? w/ Carlos Martinez
Dec 19, 2023
Carlos Martinez, author and political activist from London, Britain, discusses China as a socialist democracy. They explore China's unique democratic system, the role of mass politics and Marxism, the allegation of fakery in socialist countries, and China's successful poverty alleviation program.
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Chinese Whole-Process Democracy
- China practices a different, mass-oriented form of democracy called 'whole-process socialist democracy'.
- The system emphasizes representative councils at all levels and wide public consultation, not multi-party elections.
Limits Of Liberal Democracy
- Western 'liberal democracy' is a class-based system that often limits participation to periodic voting.
- Xi argued true democracy requires continuous engagement, not just election-day activity.
Service Record Trumps Money
- Elections and selection in China prioritize service records over money or celebrity status.
- Leaders typically rise by demonstrable public service, not campaign financing or personal wealth.