The Chinese Path to Modernization and Its Implications for the World: A Historical Perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Chinese path to modernization, explored by the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), breaks the Western-created mindset that “modernization equals capitalism.” While overcoming the inherent problems brought about by Western modernization, problems that include polarization, ecological destruction and the supremacy of capital, China’s modernization also refutes the myth that “modernization equals Westernization.” It serves as a proof that developing countries can take an independent path to modernization based on their own national conditions and historical traditions. Through its successful practice, China’s modernization has given the lie to the Western-centric concepts of the “end of history” and the “clash of civilizations.” It has brought deep changes to the world landscape, and is exerting a profound influence on the trend of development of world history.