The Reluctant Dragon

This insightful book examines China's foreign economic policy before 1978, revealing the complexities behind Maoist strategies and their evolution into the reforms of 1978.

Before 1978, China's foreign economic policy was often perceived as isolationist, heavily influenced by Maoist principles of self-reliance. In The Reluctant Dragon, the author explores the complex and sometimes contradictory strategies employed by Mao Zedong and his contemporaries. While they aimed for absolute self-sufficiency, there was also a pressing desire to modernize the economy and achieve prosperity at an accelerated pace. This duality highlights the tension between ideological commitment and practical needs that characterized the era.

The book offers a revisionist perspective, suggesting that the significant economic reforms initiated in 1978 were not entirely new but rather an evolution of the policies established during the Maoist period. By analyzing the continuity and change in China's economic strategies, The Reluctant Dragon provides valuable insights into how historical policies laid the groundwork for future developments. The author argues that understanding these earlier approaches is crucial for comprehending the subsequent transformation of China's economy.

With a comprehensive account spanning from 1949 to the late 1970s, this work delves into the intricacies of China's foreign economic policy during a pivotal time in its history. It sheds light on the motivations behind various decisions and the broader implications for China's place in the world economy, making it a significant contribution to the field of economic history and international relations.