Making Autocracy Work: Representation and Responsiveness in Modern China

Cambridge Studies in Comparative Politics

by Rory Truex

Can meaningful representation emerge in an authoritarian setting? If so, how, when, and why? Making Autocracy Work identifies the trade-offs associated with representation in authoritarian environments and then tests the theory through a detailed inquiry into the dynamics of China's National People's Congress (NPC, the country's highest formal government institution). Rory Truex argues that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is engineering a system of 'representation within bounds' in the NPC, encouraging deputies to reflect the needs of their constituents, but only for non-sensitive issues. This allows the regime to address citizen grievances while avoiding incendiary political activism. Data on NPC deputy backgrounds and behaviors is used to explore the nature of representation and incentives in this constrained system. The book challenges existing conceptions of representation, authoritarianism, and the future of the Chinese state. Consultative institutions like the NPC are key to making autocracy work.

Genres: China, Politics

415 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 27, 2016

Reviews

[Zoe · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not completely finish this book because I thought it was unnecessary. I started to read the book after attending Professor Rory Truex's talk at Yale earlier this year. It was truly disappointing, which was why I turned to read Professor Truex's book. For those who study China, especially those in the U.S., Chinese or Westerners included, I have two suggestions. Before even starting to conduct research, I would ask myself: one, do I have a conclusion before I attempt to reach a conclusion? In other words, do I presume the Chinese government is an evil entity in the first place? Is the thesis of your research is to prove badness is very bad? Two, what can I do with my research? What difference can I make? While your answer might well be - well, I want to save those people from that suppressing force, you may want to be cautious that people may make connections between that statement with colonialism. World Savior doesn't seem to exist outside of Hollywood movies.

On a related note, in Star Trek, there's a rule which they have to follow when any ship from the star fleet encounters another civilization in the universe. What's the rule again?

[Joey Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A measured and enlightening deep dive into China’s political system. As an American, this really opened my eyes to how the Chinese citizens view their government, and how the CPC maintains its political monopoly.

[Kasey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a PhD dissertation on game theory applied to China. Fascinating take on autocracy and governance in China but not for the light hearted or un-technical.