Changes and Predicament in the Public Security System

Abstract

AbstractThe 1980s is the most important period for social transformation when the most radical changes have occurred, and when the state power has turned out to be a paradox. On one hand, compared with the times of feudalism, continuous expansion of state power, both vertical and horizontal, has led to its deeper penetration into the rural areas. On the other hand, compared with the commune period (1950s-1970s) when state control over rural areas climaxed, such control has somewhat diminished. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Communist Party introduces a land reform to realign the power structure in rural China and finally manages to “embed” state power (establish control over) through the people’s commune system. Having established across-the-board control over Party activities, politics, economy, army, people and people’s study, the commune system is omnipotent (Zou Dang, 1994:3), being both a form of political organization and social structure. Political power has almost unlimited control over any part of the rural society at all times.