ABSTRACT
The “three represents” theory, a new ideological orthodox of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has reintroduced class elements into China’s political development. The theory was first raised by Jiang Zemin in 2000 when he visited Guangdong. According to this concept, the CCP represents the most advanced mode of productive forces, the most advanced culture, and the interests of the majority of the people. In his keynote speech celebrating the 80th anniversary of the CCP on July 1, 2001, Jiang further declared that the CCP would open its door wide to admit “outstanding elements” from the new social strata, including private entrepreneurs or capitalists. After a sustained political campaign of promoting the concept, the “three represents” was written into the Party Constitution at the Party’s 16th Congress, despite strong resistance from party ideologues and conservatives.
