Party and the People: Chinese Politics in the 21st Century

The Chinese Communist Party maintains power by repressing and responding to its people. Bruce Dickson's book "The Party and the People" explores how this paradox has helped the CCP endure for decades, and how this balance has shifted increasingly toward repression under President Xi Jinping. He shows that the party's dual approach lies at the core of its practices, repression when dealing with existential, political threats or challenges to its authority, and responsiveness when confronting localized economic or social unrest.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Since 1949, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has held an unrivaled grip on power in China, weathering economic crises, widespread social unrest, and even violence against its own people. However, the party's strategy for maintaining control is far from one-dimensional, encompassing both repressive measures and surprising responsiveness to the public.

In his book, "The Party and the People," Bruce Dickson delves into this complex dynamic, exploring how the CCP has managed to endure for decades and how the balance between repression and responsiveness has shifted under the rule of President Xi Jinping. Dickson raises numerous questions about the CCP's rule, such as how leaders are chosen, policies are formulated, protests are allowed, and whether China will ever transition to democracy.

One of the key insights of the book is that the CCP's dual approach lies at the core of its practices. When faced with existential political threats or challenges to its authority, the party employs repression to maintain control. However, when confronted with localized economic or social unrest, the party shows a surprising willingness to respond to the demands of the public.

For example, the CCP has been responsive to protests on issues such as local environmental hazards and healthcare, often addressing the concerns of protesters and making concessions. On the other hand, the party has dealt harshly with protests in regions such as Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong, suppressing dissent and cracking down on activists.

Since Xi Jinping's rise to power in 2012, there has been a greater reliance on suppression by the CCP, raising concerns about the future of China. Dickson examines the ways in which this tipping of the scales will influence China's political and social landscape, considering the potential consequences for both the party and the Chinese people.

The book brings together a vast body of sources, including official documents, academic research, and firsthand accounts, providing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the CCP's rule and its relationship with the Chinese people. Dickson's analysis sheds new light on how the Chinese state and its citizens shape governance, challenging traditional narratives and providing a more nuanced perspective on China's political system.

In conclusion, "The Party and the People" is a valuable contribution to the study of Chinese politics and society. By exploring the paradox of repression and responsiveness, Bruce Dickson provides a deeper understanding of the CCP's rule and its impact on the Chinese people. The book challenges traditional narratives and offers a more nuanced perspective on China's political system, shedding light on the complex dynamics between the state and its citizens.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 167 x 241 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691186641