From Sweden to Singapore: The relevance of foreign models for China's rise

Kai Yang, Stephan Ortmann

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

China can be described as a learning state which has adapted to changing conditions and frequently turned outward for lessons. In recent years, Sweden and Singapore have drawn particularly strong interest from Chinese academics because the two countries represent two different third ways between Communism and capitalism and have been useful for developing a socialism with Chinese characteristics. Sweden is seen to symbolize the ideals of social equity and harmony while Singapore is seen as a model of authoritarian state-capitalism. China's transformation has resembled the Southeast Asia city state's model more than the Scandinavian social democratic model. Since Xi Jinping assumed power in 2012, interest in Sweden has reached a nadir, while attentiveness to Singapore has peaked. Although Chinese state-capitalism faces many challenges, including rising inequality and persistent corruption, it will be difficult to find an alternative role model that can successfully combine one-party rule with economic modernization.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)946-967
Number of pages22
JournalChina Quarterly
Volume236
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2018
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Learning state
  • Singapore model
  • Socialism with Chinese characteristics
  • Swedish model
  • Third way

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