ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the problem of command and management as raised by Xu Xiangqian. The Chinese press and Party statements, which have been surprisingly informative regarding this issue, have usually discussed the problem in terms of cadre work style, "new privileged elites," and "army-people solidarity." The chapter utilizes the categories or themes to analyze the command problems the People's Liberation Army (PLA) faces, as well as some of the solutions that have been pursued. The characterizations of Yu and the old division commander epitomized the work style the PLA has been trying to eradicate. The problem of privileged elite is particularly vexing for the PLA, notwithstanding the elimination of official rank designations in May 1965. Party and public attention has focused on army cadres who have solicited or accepted special privileges that exceeded the ill-defined limits of Party propriety. In some respects, corrupt or illegal actions are merely extensions of special privileges but there are differences.
