Authoritarian Legality in Asia: Formation, Development and Transition

Asian states have achieved economic growth while maintaining authoritarian legality. This book compares the past and current experiences of China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and Vietnam and offers a comparative framework for readers to engage in a theoretical dialogue with liberal democracy and the rule of law.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 407 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Asian states, renowned for their authoritarian legality, have achieved remarkable economic growth. Why would an authoritarian regime seek or tolerate a significant degree of legality? How has this type of legality been made possible in Asia? Will a transition towards a liberal, democratic system eventually occur, and if so, what kind of post-transition struggles are likely to be experienced?

This book compares the past and current experiences of China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and Vietnam, offering a comparative framework for readers to engage in a theoretical dialogue with the orthodox conception of liberal democracy and the rule of law.

China, with its vast population and complex history, has undergone significant economic transformation in recent decades. While the government maintains tight control over various aspects of society, it has also implemented policies that have led to economic growth and improved living standards for many citizens.

Hong Kong, a former British colony, has maintained a unique legal system that combines elements of British law and Chinese tradition. The city has enjoyed a high degree of autonomy and freedom until recent years, when tensions with mainland China have increased.

South Korea, another former colony, has undergone a rapid economic transformation in recent decades, becoming a global leader in technology and manufacturing. The government has implemented policies that have promoted economic growth and social welfare, but has also faced criticism for its authoritarianism and human rights abuses.

Japan, with its long-standing traditions and culture, has maintained a stable and prosperous economy. The government has implemented policies that have promoted economic growth and social welfare, but has also faced criticism for its lack of political transparency and its treatment of minority groups.

Taiwan, a self-ruled island, has experienced rapid economic growth in recent decades, driven by its high-tech industry. The government has maintained a relatively open and democratic system, but has also faced tensions with mainland China.

Singapore, a small city-state, has achieved remarkable economic growth through its emphasis on efficiency, innovation, and strict rule of law. The government has implemented policies that have promoted economic growth and social welfare, but has also faced criticism for its authoritarianism and lack of political freedom.

Vietnam, a former French colony, has undergone rapid economic transformation in recent decades, with a focus on agriculture and manufacturing. The government has implemented policies that have promoted economic growth and social welfare, but has also faced criticism for its human rights record and lack of political freedom.

The book explores the reasons why authoritarian regimes seek or tolerate a significant degree of legality. It examines the role of the legal system in shaping political and economic outcomes, and the challenges that authoritarian regimes face in maintaining a legal system that is both effective and legitimate.

The book also examines the potential for transition towards a liberal, democratic system in Asia. It explores the factors that may facilitate or hinder such a transition, and the challenges that countries may face in implementing democratic reforms.

The book concludes by offering a comparative framework for readers to conduct a theoretical dialogue with the orthodox conception of liberal democracy and the rule of law. It encourages readers to consider the strengths and weaknesses of different legal systems, and to explore the potential for hybrid legal systems that can balance the demands of economic growth and social welfare.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the experiences of authoritarian legality in Asia, and the challenges and opportunities that these countries face in transitioning towards a liberal, democratic system. It offers a comparative framework for readers to engage in a theoretical dialogue with the orthodox conception of liberal democracy and the rule of law, and encourages readers to consider the potential for hybrid legal systems that can balance the demands of economic growth and social welfare.

Weight: 545g
ISBN-13: 9781009256513