Petition Against the Police: Conflicts Between Police and Civilians in China, 2003-2012

This book explores the petition (信访) system in China, a political participation method for the bottom and a supervision tool for the higher-level government. Fieldwork reveals a changed petition logic, leading to a dilemma of reduced costs but narrowed rights safeguarding. It offers insights into police and petition, political sociology, and organizational sociology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 189 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of the petition (信访), a unique political system with profound Chinese roots. It serves as a vital channel for marginalized individuals to express their grievances and hold officials accountable at the grassroots level, thereby facilitating effective supervision from higher-level governments. Through meticulous fieldwork conducted by the author over a span of half a year at the Public Security Bureau, a key institution in China's petition system, a startling revelation emerges: the operational logic of the petition has undergone a significant shift, leading to a perplexing dilemma. On the one hand, the cost of petitioning has decreased, making it more accessible to the general public. However, on the other hand, the avenues for safeguarding rights have become increasingly narrow, creating a challenging environment for those who have genuinely suffered injustices. In essence, the change in petition logic has resulted in a paradoxical situation where it has become easier to lodge petitions, yet success for those who are truly wronged has become more elusive.

This book, rooted in the grassroots of China's legal system, offers invaluable insights for scholars and enthusiasts interested in exploring the dynamics of police, petition, political sociology, and organizational sociology. It sheds light on the complex interplay between power, authority, and the voices of the marginalized, providing a rich tapestry of understanding for those seeking to unravel the intricacies of China's political landscape.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the petition system in China and its profound implications for society. Its comprehensive analysis and insightful observations make it an invaluable resource for scholars, activists, and policymakers alike.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811902673
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022