Shortening the Distance between Government and Public in China I: A Theoretical Approach (China Perspectives)

By: Liu Xiaoyan

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Synopsis: The concept of Distance, in its traditional sense, connotes "estrangement" and "division", but in the context of modern political studies, it denotes a controllable resource which can be manipulated to change the relationship between the government and the public. Drawing on this key concept from western political science, the author explores the law and mechanisms of China’s political communication. In this volume, the author introduces a creative theoretical framework of distance, a dynamic system comprised of physical and psychological distance, ideal distance and real distance, as well as natural distance and consequent distance. Psychological distance is paramount, because it not only signifies whether there is trust between a government and the public, but also whether the political community can maintain a high degree of harmony, stability, unity, and vitality. Recent events in the China of Xi Jinping are used as cases to illustrate the point. Students and scholars who are interested in political science and political communication, especially Chinese politics, will find this title an essential reference.