The summation and elaboration of the theory of Chinese modernization is a major theoretical innovation achieved at the 20th CPC National Congress, and it represents the latest major achievement in developing scientific socialism. Thoroughly grasping this major theoretical innovation is of vital significance to advancing the theory and practice of Chinese modernization.

Enriching modernization theories

The proposal of Chinese modernization theory dispels the myth that “modernization is equal to Westernization.”

Chinese modernization has presented an alternative modernization scenario, offering more path choices for developing nations and providing Chinese insights to aid the exploration of a better social system for humanity. 

The proposal of the theory not only has expanded the Chinese path to modernization in practice, but also will profoundly influence the innovation and development of world modernization theories.

Building a theoretical system

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the Party has successfully promoted and expanded the Chinese path to modernization while completing the basic theoretical construction of Chinese modernization.

In terms of theoretical guidance, Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era has been formed, which represents a leapfrog development in adapting Marxism to the Chinese context and the needs of the times.

Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era has provided fundamental guideline for advancing Chinese modernization.

In essence and connotation, the Chinese characteristics, essential requirements, and major principles of Chinese modernization have been summarized and refined, and its basic issues have been thoroughly interpreted. 

This theoretical system is the independent theoretical innovation of the Chinese people through extraordinary struggles in practice, and is considered an innovative breakthrough of modernization theories.

Manifesting Chinese wisdom

The “Chinese characteristics” of the theory and practice of Chinese modernization are internally consistent with the general rule of modernization.

The theory of Chinese modernization not only observes general rules of modernization and draws inspiration from all of human civilization’s outstanding achievements, but also establishes itself on the realities of China’s development. It therefore manifests a global vision with Chinese wisdom. 

The theory of Chinese modernization will expand the understanding of the general rules of modernization. China’s development has not only made world-renowned achievements, but also produced an abundance of successful practical experience. Chinese experience originates from Chinese practice and therefore has significant particularity.

However, Chinese experience has also been formed through creative practices on the basis of conforming to general rules and therefore has universality to a certain extent. 

Demonstrating epocal value

Chinese experience not only reflects successful explorations into Chinese modernization, but also manifests beneficial explorations into world modernization.

The universality of Chinese experience can provide references for the modernization processes of other countries, especially in the developing world. 

The proposal of Chinese modernization theory also represents a major contribution to human civilizations. The theory and practice of Chinese modernization have provided the development direction for human civilizations.

With further development of modernization and human civilizations, the theory of Chinese modernization will demonstrate its unique epochal value. 

Feng Ziyi is a professor from the School of Marxism at Peking University.