ABSTRACT
China’s economic reforms and open-door policy have brought about a considerable change in many aspects of post-Mao China. However, our theoretical picture of post-Mao China and our interpretation of the nature of the post-Mao changes have been complicated and confused by contrasting situations that are coexistent in China.1
Ideological campaigns are still employed while more emphasis is placed on economic development.
The party still maintains its monopoly of power and its organizational control is still pervasive while the party–state control over people’s daily lives and economic activities is relaxed.
Party control over information and media is still tight while some civil publications are allowed within nonpolitical areas.
Political persecutions and arrests continue while greater individual freedom is evident.
The party still adheres to its ideological commitment while its influence on the general population is weakening. And party control over private morality is less effective than it was under Mao, while communist morality is still a whip over Chinese society and individuals.
