The state with a surname: a dialogue with Fukuyama on the state in China

Abstract

Fukuyama’s emphasis on state-building as an underestimated component of political development is very insightful and timely; but to argue that the dynastic China had an impersonal modern state is questionable. This article argues that the dynastic state in China in general was ultra-personal despite its seemingly ‘impersonal’ means. Likewise, political decay in China mostly took a route different from the ‘elite capture’ pattern, which is the core of Fukuyama’s understanding of political decay. Historically speaking, political decay in China happened more because of the overstretching of central power rather than the erosion of disintegrating elites. This article also examines contemporary China through this framework of political order and decay, suggesting that unique features of the contemporary society might help China escape from the historical cycle.