China as Number One?: The Emerging Values of a Rising Power

The rise of China has been a significant global event in the last forty years, and whether it will replace the United States as a superpower is a question on people's minds. China must also possess soft power, such as attractive ideologies, values, and culture, to be considered a superpower. "China as Number One?" explores Chinas soft powers through the eyes of Chinese citizens by examining their social values.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 12 February 2024
Publisher: The University of Michigan Press

The rise of China has been one of the most significant global events in the last forty years, marking a profound shift in economic, technological, political, and military power. For decades, people have been intrigued by the question of whether China will replace the United States as a superpower in the near future. However, for China to achieve this status, it must possess a comprehensive power that encompasses not only strong economic and military capabilities but also soft power elements such as attractive ideologies, values, and culture.

China as Number One? delves into this topic by examining China's soft powers through the eyes of Chinese citizens. The book utilizes data from the World Values Survey, a comprehensive survey that measures the social values of people across different countries. By analyzing these data, the contributors to the collection explore the potential soft power of a rising China by examining the social values of its residents.

A comprehensive study of changes and continuities in the political and social values of Chinese citizens, China as Number One? examines findings in the context of evolutionary modernization theory and cross-national comparison. The book provides valuable insights into the evolving attitudes and beliefs of Chinese people, shedding light on the factors that shape their social values and the implications of these values for China's global influence.

One of the key findings of the book is that Chinese citizens are increasingly valuing individualism and self-expression. This shift is driven by factors such as economic development, urbanization, and the rise of social media, which have allowed people to express their opinions and connect with others more freely. At the same time, however, traditional Chinese values such as collectivism, hierarchy, and respect for authority continue to play a significant role in Chinese society.

Another important aspect of China's soft power is its cultural heritage. China has a rich and diverse history, with a long tradition of art, literature, philosophy, and cuisine. Chinese culture is known for its elegance, sophistication, and spiritual depth, and it has a strong appeal to people around the world. Chinese films, television shows, music, and fashion have become increasingly popular in recent years, and Chinese cultural institutions and festivals have gained international recognition.

In addition to its cultural heritage, China also possesses strong economic and military capabilities. China is the world's second-largest economy, with a GDP of over $14 trillion, and it is rapidly expanding its global influence through investments, trade, and infrastructure projects. China's military modernization program has also been a significant factor in its rise.

However, it is important to note that China's rise to power is not without its challenges. China faces a range of internal and external factors that could hinder its continued growth and development, including economic inequality, environmental degradation, and tensions with neighboring countries. Additionally, China's pursuit of a more assertive foreign policy has led to concerns about its military expansion and its impact on regional stability.

Despite these challenges, China's rise to power has been a significant milestone in global history. China's success in achieving economic growth and development has provided opportunities for millions of people, and it has also contributed to the global economy's stability. China's soft power elements, such as its cultural heritage and values, have also played a significant role in its global influence.

As China continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see how it balances its economic and military power with its soft power elements. China's ability to navigate these challenges and maintain its position as a global leader will depend on its ability to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain a commitment to promoting social values and cultural exchange.

In conclusion, the rise of China has been one of the most significant global events in the last forty years, and it has posed a range of questions about the future of global power. China's ability to achieve superpower status will depend on its ability to possess a comprehensive power that encompasses strong economic, military, and soft power elements. China as Number One? provides valuable insights into China's soft powers through the eyes of Chinese citizens, shedding light on the factors that shape their social values and the implications of these values for China's global influence. As China continues to evolve and grow, it will be important to monitor its development and engage in constructive dialogue to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the world.

Weight: 392g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780472056354