势 (Shì), often translated as "power," "authority," or "momentum," refers to the structural and situational advantages that a ruler or state must maintain to effectively govern. Unlike personal virtue or moral authority, Shì emphasizes positional power—the influence derived from one’s role within the broader framework of governance or strategy.
In Legalist philosophy, Shì highlights the necessity of creating and sustaining a system where the ruler’s authority is unassailable. The ruler’s strength is not rooted in their individual charisma or morality but in the design of institutions, enforcement of laws (法, Fǎ), and strategic control (术, Shù). A leader must ensure that their position inherently commands obedience and respect.
Shì was a critical concept during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), when constant warfare and political instability required rulers to consolidate their authority to survive. Legalist thinkers like Han Feizi (韩非子) and Shang Yang (商鞅) emphasized that a ruler’s power should be institutionalized, not dependent on personal qualities. The Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE) exemplified this principle by centralizing authority and creating a system where laws and structures—not individual rulers—maintained order.
In modern China, Shì informs the CCP’s approach to governance and international relations. It is viewed as a means to create a stable and powerful state, ensuring both domestic control and global influence.
Key Characteristics in CCP Governance:
Institutional Strength:
The CCP places great importance on building institutions that ensure continuity of power, such as centralized control mechanisms and meritocratic promotion systems.
Momentum in Policy Implementation:
Policies are crafted with the understanding that once momentum is achieved, maintaining Shì becomes easier, as demonstrated in long-term projects like economic reforms and technological innovation.
International Influence:
China’s rise on the global stage reflects an application of Shì in foreign policy, leveraging its economic and geopolitical position to shape international norms and institutions.
1. Qin Dynasty Centralization:
Under Qin Shi Huang, the centralization of power eliminated regional autonomy, creating a system where the emperor’s authority (势) was absolute and unchallengeable.
2. Anti-Separatist Policies:
The CCP’s firm stance on territorial integrity (e.g., regarding Taiwan, Tibet, and Xinjiang) reflects the importance of maintaining Shì to prevent fragmentation and ensure national unity.
3. Belt and Road Initiative:
This global infrastructure project leverages China’s economic position to build international alliances and expand its influence, exemplifying the strategic application of Shì.
4. Military Modernization:
China’s emphasis on building a strong, modern military reflects the importance of Shì in safeguarding sovereignty and projecting power internationally.
5. Domestic Governance – Stability Above All:
Strict enforcement of laws, control of dissent, and efforts to align public opinion with state goals demonstrate the CCP’s focus on maintaining Shì to ensure long-term stability.
Power vs. Morality:
Americans may view Shì as overly pragmatic or authoritarian, contrasting with Western ideals of leadership rooted in individual morality and democratic accountability.
Positional vs. Personal Authority:
Western perspectives often value personal charisma or moral leadership, while Shì emphasizes the structural advantages of the role itself, independent of the individual occupying it.
Global Influence:
China’s focus on leveraging Shì internationally (e.g., economic influence) may be perceived as expansionist or coercive rather than strategic or cooperative.
Shì aligns with the Chinese emphasis on long-term planning, institutional strength, and strategic positioning. It reflects the historical necessity of maintaining centralized authority to prevent chaos and fragmentation. In modern China, Shì remains central to the CCP’s approach to governance and foreign policy, ensuring that the state can effectively navigate both domestic and global challenges.