Ideological choices in contemporary China: With a discussion of Francis Fukuyama's declaration of the end of history

• Published in: International critical thought Vol. 1; no. 2; pp. 158 - 170
• Main Author: Huiqin, Hou
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Routledge 01.06.2011
• Subjects: capitalism; critique of ideology; end of history; socialism with Chinese characteristics
• ISSN: 2159-8282; 2159-8312
• DOI: 10.1080/21598282.2011.584160

One of the myths Western ideology keeps creating and maintaining is that nothing can surpass capitalism. However, this myth has been revealed to be false by contemporary China, with its firmly held banner of socialism with Chinese characteristics and its sustained rapid growth. China's growth has fundamentally rewritten world history and has made Francis Fukuyama's declaration of the end of history into a historical irony. The Chinese Communists have achieved this through Deng Xiaoping theory, the groundbreaking statement of the 'Three Represents' and the strategic scientific concept of development in their comprehensive understanding of new historical developments in response to the new challenges posed by the times. In the process they have provided answers to three historical issues: (1) What is socialism and how can it be realized? (2) What is the nature of the Communist Party of China and how can it be strengthened? And (3) What is development aimed at and how should it be achieved? From this arises the theoretical framework of socialism with Chinese characteristics and the foundation for socialist ideology in contemporary China. These points also offer a clear answer to half a century of ideological debate: ideology remains a fundamental driving force for reaching consensus and forming synergy; political and public participation inspired by enthusiasm arising from theory and shared ideals are an irreplaceable and effective means to man's spiritual quest; history is far from ending, and socialism still stands for the direction of humanity's progress and development.