The Chinese political system is the subject of much media and popular comment in part because China supports an economy with an apparently inexorable dynamic and impressive record of achievement. This book provides a comprehensive introduction to China's political system, outlining the major features of the Chinese model and highlighting its claims and challenges. It explores the central role of the Communist Party in the country's politics and the way in which the Party controls most elements of the political system. The book also draws parallels with previous historical periods in China's history. Finally, it addresses the question of what kind of role the People's Republic of China will play in global politics as a whole, the implications for the West and the rebalancing of relations between China and its neighbours.

Reviews

"This volume is brief, yet comprehensive. Moreover, the authors skilfully place their discussions on contemporary Chinese politics within the historical context, especially the brutal wars and thoughtful revolutions that gave birth to the current regime. Such a historical perspective is a necessity to anyone who wants to understand the many apparent puzzles and paradoxes related to Chinese Politics"

(Yu Tao, Political Studies Review, May 2014)

Introduction
1. Chinese Politics: The legacy of history
2. The party-state
3. The state apparatus and centre-local relations
4. Political change and its limits: Democratisation with Chinese characteristics
5. The national question in Chinese politics
(Appendix A - official ethnic groups)
6. Foreign policy
Conclusion
Bibliography

Authors

Neil Collins is Professor and Head of the Department of Government, University College, Cork, Ireland

Andrew Cottey is Senior Lecturer in the Department of Government, University College, Cork, Ireland