Redefining Nationalism in Modern China

Why do the Chinese sometimes speak out against U.S. and yet at other times, remain silent? This book uses a variety of previously untapped sources, including a range of news sources within China itself, weblogs, and interviews with prominent figures, to make a powerful new argument about the causes and consequences of the new Chinese nationalism.

'Rather than treat Chinese nationalism as a single phenomenon, Shen disaggregates China and identifies different varieties of nationalism in responses to key events. Through his study of the worldwide web as an arena for discussing these responses, Shen also shows that the internet may not have the inevitable liberalising impact on Chinese society that some assume.' - Shaun Breslin, Professor of Politics and International Studies, University of Warwick, UK

'One of the most theoretically well-informed and methodologically innovative studies of nationalism to appear thus far. In a sharp departure from previous studies [Shen] sees a 'politics of public diversity' in which various levels or groups contend to define public issues so as to enhance their own political positions, develop new Chinese national strategic orientations and to identify and target opposition symbols.' - Lowell Dittmer, Professor of Political Science, University of California at Berkeley, USA

'Using daring and innovative primary research, [Shen] redefines nationalism not as a top-down phenomenon, but instead as a dynamic engagement between state and society. Essential reading for those who want to understand the changing nature of public opinion in contemporary China.' - Rana Mitter, University Lecturer in History and Politics of Modern China, University of Oxford, UK

'Solidly researched and rigorously argued, this book is a valuable and timely addition to the growing body of literature dealing with Chinese nationalism.' - Shaoguang Wang, Chair Professor, Department of Government and Public Administration, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

'...thanks to Shen's painstaking effort, the questions that his study raises will lead us to think further about Chinese nationalism.' - Yongnian Zheng, The China Quarterly

SIMON SHEN is Research Assistant Professor of the Chinese University of Hong Kong's Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies. He has contributed to journals such as Pacific Review, Asian Perspective, East Asia, Journal of Chinese Political Science and Journal of East Asian History. His research interests include Sino-US relations, Chinese nationalism, anti-terrorism, external relations of Hong Kong and globalization. He is also the founder of the Roundtable Social Science Research Network in Hong Kong.