Private entrepreneurs and political developments in China: The Chinese version of ‘no bourgeoisie, no democracy?’

Abstract

Private entrepreneurs play an invisible but increasingly influential role in Chinese political life. Therefore, more studies on government–business relations are needed for a better understanding of political developments in contemporary China. Based on the theoretical assumption of ‘no bourgeoisie, no democracy’, existing research studies explore whether there is an autonomous and opposing capitalist class in the process of market transition. Most of these studies conclude that the capitalist class in China is quite dependent on and colludes with the state because of their shared political values and interests as well as the political co-optation and corporatism of the party-state. Other studies reflect on these viewpoints and contend that it is improper to consider private entrepreneurs to be a homogeneous social class with common interests and a common identity. The theoretical assumption of ‘no bourgeoisie, no democracy’ is also questioned and modified. Based on these studies, the article argues that existing studies have placed too much emphasis on private entrepreneurs’ role in the democratization process, acting either for or against it, while neglecting the actual individual or collective influences of private entrepreneurs on policymaking and implementation. This situation, however, signifies great political change in contemporary China. Therefore, this paper suggests that it is necessary to reflect on the existing theoretical assumption in order to deepen our understanding of the relationship between private entrepreneurs and the Chinese government. Furthermore, future research studies on private entrepreneurs in China may need to shift their focus from democratization to policy influence and from autonomy to influence.