150218 UE An introduction to the Chinese political and legal systems (M6) (2016S)

This course offers a basic understanding of Chinese politics and law, two closely-linked concepts in the Chinese context. The center of focus of this course will be the trajectory of historical development of the Chinese Communist Party, the institutional design and structure of the party-state, basic features of contemporary Chinese politics and the roles and functions of law and courts in the overall political system. You will also learn the academic approaches to Chinese studies through a close reading and analysis of the representative literature in the field. Films will also be used to illustrate topics under discussion when appropriate. THE COURSE WILL BE CONDUCTED IN ENGLISH.

This course will offer a closer understanding of contemporary Chinese politics, society and law by tapping into the news stories reported in and outside of China. The general themes that will be covered through the course include 1) rural society and development, 2) labor, migration and urbanization, 3) family and romance, 4) popular culture and media, 5) internet and civil society, 6) officialdom and bureaucracy, 7) culture and corruption, and 8) criminal justice and human rights. The literature that will be used to assist you with the course include a rich combination of studies conducted under a wide range of disciplines, such as political science, sociology, anthropology, history and law. THE COURSE WILL BE CONDUCTED IN ENGLISH.