Introduction to Chinese Politics

3 units

China's rise on the global stage stands as one of the most significant geopolitical developments of the 21st century. What are the implications of China's growing influence for the rest of the world? How did a once relatively poor nation transform into one of prosperity and stability? And will China's political system maintain its resilience over time? This course seeks to explore these questions, offering a comprehensive introduction to Chinese politics. Key topics include elite politics, censorship, protest, technology, trade, the military, diplomacy, and foreign policy. To better understand China's economic and political ascent, we will begin with a chronological exploration of its history, from the Imperial era to the present day. We will then investigate the resilience of China's authori­ tarian system and the factors behind its stability. Finally, we will assess the global impact of China's rise. No prior knowledge of China or the Chinese language is required.