power and authority Flashcards
what is the importance of dynastic cycle?
an important political theory to address when examining Chinese history.
rise and demise of power (dyasties)
what happened to role of power and authority?
changed greatly over time in China, partic during the 20th century
What was the change in gov/power/authority?
at the start of century, china was ruled by the Qing (Manchu) dynasty. Then in 1912, the Nationalists established the Republic of China.
what happened after establishment of republic of china?
long period of social and political instability
what was negative about repub of china?
in 1920/30s, political order was dominated by Nationalists, associated with urban elites (rich powerful ppl in main cities).
then, the national gov conducted a ‘civil’ war against the Chinese communist Party
result of civil war?
the Chinese comm party under Mao Zedong were victorious in this civil war and established their own gov in 1929. it was an authoritarian communist leadership.
What has happened since 1976?
Although the CCp has ruled since Mao Zedong’s death, as increasingly emphasized programs of economic liberation and opening up to the world.
Depsite these changes in 1976, what has remained the same?
the authority of the state under CCP remains the same to a degree in the post Mao era.
there are still no free and fair elections and secrecy is rife (i.e. be careful of what u say or u might be abducted, if u dissent).
what are some examples of opposition and defiance to the CCP?
- Tiananmen Square protest for democracy and freedom of speech
- documentaries such as Ai WeiL never Sorry and Ai Wei Wei: The Fake Case - contemporary artists and prominent anti-communist activist.
what control does CCP have?
restrict freedom of speech and censorship at micro level
not until recently that notable challenges to authority attracted the interests of the rest of world.
what is the difference between newer generations than their parents?
difference sense of authority and power
What is seen in young chinese ppl against the CCP?
more challenging of authority.
they prefer decision making based on personal choice and autonomy (freedom to think individually rather than collectively), rather than taking advice/being told what to do by adults.
but what remains same amongst young ppl?
their strong traditional values and morals
what has happened since turn of century after CCP?
the value of Chinese currency has increased which has led both increase in indiv’s wealth and an increase in social unrest.
(fact: more billionaires in China than USA)
