“In 20 years’ time, China is going to be so different from what it is now.” These are the words of Martin Jacques, renowned writer and former senior fellow at the Department of Politics and International Studies at Cambridge University. Over the past three decades, Jacques has witnessed firsthand China’s remarkable transformation and growth.
As China continues to evolve, Jacques emphasizes the importance of understanding Chinese modernization and how it differs from Western models. Central to his perspective is the distinction between a “civilization state” and a “nation state.”
“China is not just a nation state in the Western sense,” Jacques explains. “It is a civilization state with a rich history spanning thousands of years. This heritage profoundly influences its governance, culture, and societal values.”
According to Jacques, this concept helps to explain China’s unique path of development. While Western models of modernization often prioritize individualism and liberal democratic frameworks, China’s approach is deeply rooted in its cultural and historical context, prioritizing collective harmony and long-term planning.
He also highlights how China’s rapid economic growth and technological advancements are reshaping the global landscape. “China’s rise is not merely an economic phenomenon but a civilizational one,” Jacques notes. “It’s redefining notions of modernity and offering alternative pathways for development.”
Looking ahead, Jacques believes that China’s continued evolution will have significant implications for the world. “Understanding China as a civilization state is crucial,” he asserts. “It allows us to appreciate its complexities and the ways in which it will continue to play an influential role on the global stage.”
As China charts its course for the future, observers like Martin Jacques encourage a nuanced perspective that acknowledges its unique identity and contributions to global affairs. The next two decades, he suggests, will further unveil the distinctive characteristics of China’s modernization journey.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
