集权 (Jíquán), translated as "centralization," refers to the concentration of administrative, political, and decision-making power within a central authority. In the Chinese context, Jíquán has been a recurring principle in governance, ensuring that policies and directives are uniformly implemented across the nation. This concept is rooted in the belief that a strong central authority is essential for maintaining stability, national unity, and effective governance.
Centralization minimizes local autonomy, ensuring that regional leaders and institutions align with national goals. It also allows for rapid and coordinated responses to crises and long-term strategic planning, which are viewed as vital in a country as large and diverse as China.
The principle of Jíquán was solidified during the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE) under Qin Shi Huang, who abolished the feudal system and replaced it with centralized control. Administrative units, such as prefectures and counties, were directly managed by officials appointed by the emperor. This system eliminated regional power bases and ensured that loyalty to the central government was paramount.
Over time, successive Chinese dynasties adjusted the degree of centralization based on circumstances. For example, during periods of stability, some decentralization occurred to empower local governance, while periods of crisis or fragmentation saw a return to stricter centralization.
In modern China, the CCP has maintained and refined Jíquán, emphasizing the importance of centralized leadership in achieving national objectives and managing complex challenges.
For the CCP, Jíquán represents not only a historical necessity but also a practical approach to governance. Centralized authority is seen as a way to ensure consistency, prevent local corruption or inefficiency, and maintain national unity in the face of domestic and international challenges.
Key Characteristics in CCP Governance:
Policy Implementation:
Centralization allows the CCP to implement nationwide policies, such as poverty alleviation and infrastructure development, with uniformity and precision.
Crisis Management:
In emergencies, such as natural disasters or pandemics, centralization enables rapid mobilization of resources and coordinated responses.
National Unity:
Centralization underpins China’s stance on territorial integrity, ensuring that all regions adhere to the central government’s directives.
1. Qin Dynasty Centralization:
Qin Shi Huang’s replacement of feudal states with a centralized administrative system established the first unified Chinese empire, laying the foundation for Jíquán in Chinese governance.
2. The People's Republic of China:
Since its founding in 1949, the CCP has maintained strict centralization to consolidate power and implement socialist policies. For instance, land reforms and industrialization campaigns were executed uniformly across provinces.
3. Modern Crisis Response – COVID-19:
During the pandemic, centralized authority enabled the rapid deployment of medical resources, lockdown measures, and mass testing, illustrating the CCP’s ability to coordinate efforts nationwide.
4. Anti-Corruption Campaigns:
The central government’s oversight ensures that local officials are held accountable, reducing corruption and ensuring alignment with national goals.
5. Belt and Road Initiative:
The strategic direction of this global infrastructure project reflects centralized planning, with clear goals set by the central government and executed through coordinated efforts.
Contrast with Federalism:
Americans, familiar with a federal system that grants significant autonomy to states, may view Jíquán as overly rigid or authoritarian. In China, it is seen as a necessity for unity and stability.
Top-Down Approach:
Centralization may be perceived as suppressing local initiative or creativity, while in the Chinese perspective, it ensures efficiency and prevents regional disparities.
Authority and Autonomy:
Western cultures often prioritize individual or regional autonomy, whereas Jíquán reflects a collective approach that prioritizes national coherence.
Jíquán aligns with China’s historical experience of managing a vast and diverse population. It reflects the lessons learned from periods of fragmentation, where decentralized power led to instability and conflict. In modern China, the CCP uses Jíquán to achieve national objectives, enforce laws, and maintain unity, ensuring that the country can navigate its internal challenges and external pressures effectively.