The third revolution: Xi Jinping and the new Chinese state/ Elizabeth C. Economy

Includes bibliographical references and index

After three decades of reform and opening up, China is closing its doors, clamping down on Western influence in the economy, media, and civil society. At the same time, President Xi Jinping has positioned himself as a champion of globalization, projecting Chinese power abroad and seeking to reshape the global order. Herein lies the paradox of modern China--the rise of a more insular, yet more ambitious China that will have a profound impact on both the country's domestic politics and its international relations. In The Third Revolution, eminent China scholar Elizabeth C. Economy provides an incisive look at the world's most populous country. Inheriting a China burdened with slowing economic growth, rampant corruption, choking pollution, and a failing social welfare system, President Xi has reversed course, rejecting the liberalizing reforms of his predecessors. At home, the Chinese leadership has reasserted the role of the state into society and enhanced Party and state control. Beyond its borders, Beijing has recast itself as a great power and has maneuvered itself to be an arbiter--not just a player--on the world stage.