Reviews. Lin Chun, The Transformation of Chinese Socialism, Durham and London: Duke University Press, 2006

Abstract

In an age dominated by the worldview of capitalist globalism, it takes courage and stamina to continue arguing for the relevance of socialism as both a theory and social practice. Yet Lin Chun’s book is exceptional not merely because it defies the post-Cold War trend of dismissing socialism/communism as a failed shortcut or long detour to capitalism. It is significant, more importantly, because of its penetrating and compelling exposition of why Chinese socialism has survived the post-communist world. Emerging from her in-depth analysis is also a clear and straightforward message: the continued marginalisation of socialism in China’s political discourse, economic agendas and social interactions, rather than incomplete market transition as many argue, is answerable to most problems encountered in the reform. Lin Chun’s diagnostic reasoning, backed by her 10-year diligent study, should help bring China’s public debate on the reform’s negative socioeconomic impacts closer to finding their root causes and final solutions.