China is one of the largest countries in the world that is constantly changing, just like the rest of the world. In the readings from class, it is essential to note that the concept of “Modern China” is unique since china has its current category. China has a lot to offer, with 1.3 billion inhabitants and a fast-growing economy. With such a great history, China has been considered modern as it adapted to the times. The concept of China being modern shifts with the times, with new ideas and technology being created. China doesn’t want to be compared to more western ideas of being modern, but instead has its specific classification of being modern in its way. With such a great and rich history, China has many aspects that show its premodern characteristics that make them stand out. With many great dynasties, the Chinese have always had a balanced system in state affairs which led to their profitable growth. Western influence, however, led to a shift in Chinese power and a change in how China viewed its modernity. China seemed to have changed all of its social and political structures through the Mao dynasty. The social hierarchies of the old class structure were too “feudal” and “traditional,” which led to the change to “CCP.” Over time, the Chinese wanted to try and revert away from the emperor-type power that would hopefully distribute the power a little better. The thing about modernity is that is changes with the times. With the changes in political structure and power, it shows the modernity of China. The main thing to take away from this writing is that being modern is adapting overtime that’s why when we look at “Modern China,” we are looking back to the 1600s to the current day.
Mitter, Rana. Modern China: A Very Short Introduction. Very Short Introductions. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008
Spence, Jonathan D. The Search for Modern China. First ed. New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 1999
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