Description
This course deals with political reforms (and their limitations) initiated by the Chinese government during the transition to market socialism. It will explore the factors necessitating the reform, the impact of the reform on the power of the Party vis-à-vis society, the rising political aspiration of the people, and the limitations towards democratization.
Topics include:
Ideological and organizational reform of the Party
Congressional and administrative reform of the government
Elections and grassroots governance
Corruption and cadre management reforms
Civil society and NGOs
Time table
Click here for the timetable.
Teaching method
Seminar
Admission requirements
None
Course objectives
The course aims at achieving an advanced understanding of the political process in contemporary China. Students will learn about the intricate relationship between economic reform and political change. They will attain a deeper understanding of the political complexity connected with the issue of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in China.
Course load
5 EC * 28 hours = 140 hours
Required reading
Dali L. Yang, Remaking the Chinese Leviathan: Market Transition and the Politics of Governance in China (Stanford: Standord University Press, 2004).
Test method
- paper (50%), critique (30%), and presentation (20%)
Contact
For further information about the course, please contact Dhr. Ngo, e-mail: t.w.ngo@hum.leidenuniv.nl
Registration
Through U-TWIST (see ‘Aanmeldprocedures voor colleges en tentamens’)
Blackboard
Reading materials, papers and critiques will be made available via Blackboard.