Marxism and Socialism with Chinese Characteristics

The adaptation of Marxism to actual Chinese conditions resulted in the creation of a theoretical system of building socialism with Chinese characteristics. This system, formulated by the Communist Party of China (CPC), is the theoretical summary of the essence and general laws of China’s socialist reform and economic development since the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949, especially during the decades of Reform and Opening up that started from 1978. Being an innovative application and development of Marxism in the historical context of contemporary China, it not only follows the general principles of Marxism and scientific socialism, but also exhibits features that are unique to the Chinese nation. Basing on official materials and drawing on existing academic achievements in CPC theoretical studies, Marxism and Socialism with Chinese Characteristics focuses on the interpretation of the basic tenets, theoretical value, and contemporary significance of traditional Marxism, the exploration of the features of the theoretical system of Chinese socialism from various perspectives, and in particular the study of the relationship between these two important theories, shedding light on the historical process of the sinicization of Marxism. The chapters in the book are arranged topically and interrelated. Topics covered include the origin and development of socialist ideology; the sinicization of Marxism and the creation of the theory of building socialism with Chinese characteristics; the development law of the socialist market economy; socialist democracy and the dictatorship of the proletariat; the Marxist theory on political party and party-building in China; and the scientific outlook on development, all of which are aimed at illuminating the significance and relevance of Marxism in contemporary times, especially in the context of China.