China’s Socialist Reform Blueprint 1987 | Generated by AI
This passage describes a significant milestone in Chinese Communist Party history and ideology. Here’s what it explains:
In 1987, at the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the Party made important theoretical developments:
Primary Socialist Stage Theory: For the first time, the Congress systematically articulated the theory that China was in the “primary stage of socialism” - essentially acknowledging that China was still in an early, developing phase of building socialism and would remain so for a long time.
“One Center, Two Basic Points” Policy: The Congress clearly defined the Party’s basic line:
- One Center: Economic development as the central focus
- Two Basic Points: (1) Adherence to the Four Cardinal Principles (upholding socialism, people’s democratic dictatorship, Party leadership, and Marxism-Leninism-Mao Zedong Thought), and (2) Reform and Opening Up policies
Theoretical Framework: The Congress systematically summarized the main content of “socialism with Chinese characteristics” theory from three Marxist perspectives:
- Marxist philosophy
- Political economy
- Scientific socialism
This 1987 Congress was pivotal because it provided theoretical justification for China’s economic reforms while maintaining the Party’s political control - essentially explaining how market-oriented reforms could coexist with socialist ideology. This framework has remained foundational to Chinese policy ever since.