Popular Protest in China

Popular protest in China has been widespread and prevalent, but it has achieved adequate government responses to the public's most serious grievances. However, this may not last forever, as Chinese citizens who engage in protest often suffer serious emotional and physical costs and have developed an unhealthy relationship with the regime. Xi Jinping's recent efforts to restrict public expression may backfire, leading to an explosive dynamic that may threaten the political stability that Chinas ruling elites so desire.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2018
Publisher: Polity Press

The phenomenon of popular protest in China has been a widespread and persistent feature of the country's political landscape in the post-Mao era. In this comprehensive book, Teresa Wright delves into the various forms and motivations behind these protests, encompassing a diverse range of groups such as farmers, factory workers, urban homeowners, environmentalists, nationalists, dissidents, ethnic minorities, and Hong Kong residents. Wright's analysis reveals that, with the exception of the protests in Hong Kong, popular contention has often yielded satisfactory responses from the government, addressing the most pressing grievances of the public.

However, Wright cautions that this situation may not persist indefinitely. Engaging in protest can lead to severe emotional and physical consequences for Chinese citizens, fostering an unhealthy relationship with the regime. Moreover, recent efforts by Chinese President Xi Jinping to restrict public expression may inadvertently exacerbate the situation, creating a volatile dynamic that poses a threat to the political stability that China's ruling elites seek to maintain.

The book explores the historical context, social dynamics, and political implications of popular protest in China, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities faced by the country's citizens in their quest for social and political change. Wright's insights provide valuable perspectives on the complex interplay between the government, the public, and the various interest groups that shape China's political landscape.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 206 x 165 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509503568