

Does Xi Jinping Really Believe in Communism?
Jul 14, 2025
In this discussion, Professor Perry Link, a leading expert on East Asian studies and co-editor of the Tiananmen Papers, delves into the complex ideology of Xi Jinping. He questions whether Xi truly believes in Communism or if he is merely a product of the political system. Link shares insights into the values crisis in China and recounts personal anecdotes that illustrate the disconnect between the government's rhetoric and the realities of daily life, highlighting the struggles faced by everyday citizens.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Xi Jinping's Lack of Deep Marxism
- Xi Jinping is not a deep Marxist thinker despite pushing 'Xi Jinping Thought.'
- He rose through party infighting and relies on Maoist formulas without strong personal ideology.
Xi Jinping Thought's Ritual Role
- Xi Jinping Thought functions more as a loyalty ritual than a belief system.
- Party members publicly show fealty by studying it, even if they don't believe in its content.
Navigating China's Language Game
- Chinese people navigate two conflicting languages: official party rhetoric and daily reality.
- Success requires mastering official speech to get resources while managing personal life truths.