Chinese Politics: The XI Jinping Difference

Written by a team of leading China specialists, this updated 2nd edition of Chinese Politics explores the dynamics of state power and politics in contemporary China, focusing on the Xi Jinping era.

Through its multi-disciplinary contributions, this book explores the extent to which Xi has reshaped the political, economic, socio-cultural, and demographic terrains of the PRC, as well as Beijing’s foreign policy. The book will help readers to think productively about the trajectory of these aspects of Chinese politics and society through Xi’s current term and beyond. The book also highlights the potential role outside countries and non-state actors might play in shaping China’s trajectory as the PRC’s economic rise may be stalling. Through each exploration of these issues, the book addresses the central question of what The Xi Jinping Difference has been, and will likely continue to be, in Chinese politics.

Key subjects covered in this new edition include:

• Law and the political system
• Socialization of youth
• The fate of the private sector
• Technology and digital authoritarianism
• The Belt and Road Initiative
• Population aging

Chinese Politics continues to be an essential textbook for all students of contemporary China as well as scholars interested in the dynamics of political and social change.

Stanley Rosen is a Professor of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Southern California, USA.

Daniel C. Lynch is an Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences and a Professor of Public and International Affairs at the City University of Hong Kong.