A Glimpse of Shanghai’s Future
A few months ago, during a visit to Shanghai for a workshop at Fudan University, our group was invited to experience a night cruise along the Huangpu River. The cityscape at night was nothing short of breathtaking, with brilliantly illuminated skyscrapers painting a futuristic panorama.
Standing beside me was an American professor visiting Shanghai for the first time. As we gazed at the stunning skyline, I remarked, “It is almost like downtown Manhattan at night, right?” He responded thoughtfully, “No. New York is a great symbol of the 20th century, but this city is a gateway to the 21st century.”
China’s Modernization: A New Model
This acknowledgment from a U.S. academic underscored the remarkable progress China has made. Decades ago, many around the world viewed the United States as the pinnacle of modernity—a standard to aspire to. The end goal for many nations was clear: to catch up with America. However, China’s rapid development has shifted this perspective.
China’s journey demonstrates that there are multiple paths to modernization and modernity. Unlike the Soviet Union, which ultimately fell short in offering an alternative model, or European social democracies that struggled to fully realize their vision, China has showcased a unique approach that resonates with many countries, especially in the Global South.
Progress Amid Challenges
The 75 years since the founding of the People’s Republic of China have been marked by both significant achievements and considerable challenges. The nation’s success has been forged through hard work and resilience, overcoming hardships along the way.
While cities like Shanghai exemplify China’s advancements, the nation still grapples with regional disparities. Provinces such as Guizhou and Gansu remind us that development is uneven, yet even in these areas, one does not encounter the kind of slums prevalent in parts of major U.S. cities like New York’s South Bronx or Chicago’s Near West Side.
A New Standard for the 21st Century
China’s evolution offers a valuable lesson—that modernity does not have a one-size-fits-all model. The nation’s ability to chart its own course provides inspiration for other countries seeking to develop in ways that align with their unique contexts and values. As we move further into the 21st century, China’s experience encourages a reevaluation of what it means to be modern in a rapidly changing world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
