Yang Ying: The Methodology, Content, and Contemporary Value of the Theoretical Construction of Chinese Modernization
Based on the historical practice of Chinese-path modernization and the series of great achievements already attained, the purpose of constructing the theory of Chinese-path modernization is to academically collate, elucidate, and summarize the practice of Chinese-path modernization under the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. This involves building a theoretical form that corresponds to the practice of Chinese-path modernization and promoting the Sinicization and modernization of Marxism, thereby confirming the theoretical legitimacy and practical superiority of socialism with Chinese characteristics. At the same time, it characterizes the profound grasp held by Chinese Communists regarding the laws of Communist Party governance, the laws of socialist construction, and the laws of the development of human society. As such, the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization is essentially a profound answer to the "question of modernization"—namely, "what kind of modernization do we actually need, and how can we achieve it?"—thereby manifesting the theoretical self-awareness and theoretical responsibility of Chinese-path modernization practice in the New Era.
I. Confirmation of the Premises for the Theoretical Construction of Chinese-path Modernization
The report to the 20th National Congress of the CPC pointed out: "Chinese-path modernization is the socialist modernization led by the Communist Party of China. It contains features common to the modernization of all countries, but more importantly, it has Chinese characteristics based on our own national conditions." Regarding this, one cannot merely examine the uniqueness of Chinese-path modernization from the dimensional relationship between universality and particularity, or between commonality and individuality. One must also distinguish it from the heights of the typology of modernization and the "Dao" [1] of construction and development. Only then can we fundamentally clarify the difference between Chinese-path modernization and other types of modernization, and subsequently truly grasp the unique practical character, value orientation, and theoretical logic inherent in the "path" (式) of Chinese-path modernization. Only in this way can we confirm and verify the practical foundation and realistic support for the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization, thereby establishing the methodology and the principles that must be followed.
From the dimension of time and practical paradigms, "modernization" has existed in China for over a hundred years. It has passed through several periods: the "modernization of China" since the Self-Strengthening Movement [2]; the "modernization with Chinese characteristics" primarily composed of Mao Zedong’s economic construction strategy in On the Ten Major Relationships and the political construction plan in On the Correct Handling of Contradictions Among the People; the "Chinese-style modernization" (中国式的现代化) [3] within the general framework of Deng小平's theory of the primary stage of socialism; and the "Chinese-path modernization" (中国式现代化) of the New Era. Thus, modernization in China presents a historical logic of continuous unfolding, deepening, and transcendence in both practice and cognition: from "China's" → "with Chinese characteristics" → "Chinese-style" → "Chinese-path." Viewed this way, Chinese-path modernization not only carries the spiritual theme of self-awareness and self-strengthening inherent in previous stages but, on the basis of deepening that self-awareness, even more clearly manifests a spiritual spirit of self-confidence and self-reliance, thereby forging a Chinese chapter of Marxism.
Conducting a deep analysis of Chinese-path modernization from the heights of typology and the "Dao"—and from the dimensions of the historical context, motivations, and goals of modernization, as well as the value principles and practical strategies followed—will more clearly reveal its "individuality," which is distinctly different from Western capitalist modernization or other forms of socialist modernization. Thus, as General Secretary Xi Jinping noted when judging the great social transformation of contemporary China, Chinese-path modernization "is not a simple continuation of the 'template' of our country's history and culture, nor a simple mechanical application of the 'template' envisioned by classical Marxist writers; it is not a 'reprint' of other countries' socialist practices, nor a 'version' of foreign modernization development." To speak plainly, it is precisely because of China's "unique cultural tradition, unique historical destiny, and unique basic national conditions that it is ordained that we must take a developmental path suited to our own characteristics."
From the historical context of the emergence and development of Western capitalist modernization, the bourgeoisie, because it "has created more massive and more colossal productive forces than have all preceding generations together" during its rule of scarce one hundred years, acted as a new historical subject. The modernization movement it initiated, driven by modern large-scale industrial production, could be described as "leading the field alone." The capitalist mode of production, with its irresistible force, comprehensively replaced traditional modes of production, thereby thoroughly crushing all traditional classes and becoming the new dominant class. As a historically progressive movement, capitalist modernization charged forward; the "need of a constantly expanding market for its products chases the bourgeoisie over the entire surface of the globe. It must nestle everywhere, settle everywhere, establish connexions everywhere." Through this, it "has through its exploitation of the world market given its cosmopolitan character to production and consumption in every country," "drawn from under the feet of industry the national ground on which it stood," and thus "it creates a world after its own image." In this way, the bourgeois modernization movement shaped a new system of slavery based on private ownership—namely, the wage-labor system—as its operating mechanism. It created a value system with capital as the link, interests as the axis, and profit as the measure. It gradually formed a world system that "has subjected the country to the rule of the towns," "has made barbarian and semi-barbarian countries dependent on the civilized ones, nations of peasants on nations of bourgeois, the East on the West." Consequently, Western capitalist modernization generated and constructed value biases of urban-centrism, Western-centrism, and anthropocentrism. It forged a target of value orientation toward "capital," "exchange value," and "profit," as well as a landscape of reified images (物象景观) derived from "commodity" production. It reset the spatial-temporal coordinates and principles of value discipline for humanity, further manifesting the inherent order, structure, and historical and value logics of the evolution of Western capitalist modernization through economic, political, social, and cultural dimensions.
Within this newly formed world system, although it "produced the great civilizing influence of capital," nevertheless, "in bourgeois society, the past dominates the present... in bourgeois society capital is independent and has individuality, while the living person is dependent and has no individuality." "Just as the general or the banker plays a great part in bourgeois society, while man as such plays a very subordinate part, so it is with human labour." This is because, in this system, "the propertied class and the class of the proletariat present the same human self-estrangement. But the former class feels at ease and strengthened in this self-estrangement, it recognizes estrangement as its own power and has in it the semblance of a human existence. The latter feels annihilated in estrangement; it sees in it its own powerlessness and the reality of an inhuman existence." "When the worker and the capitalist both suffer, the worker suffers in his very existence, while the capitalist suffers in the profit on his dead mammon." Thus, as the capitalist modernization movement unfolded deeply, commodity fetishism, money fetishism, and capital fetishism, along with the "two accumulations" [4], were the inevitable results. Furthermore, capitalist modernization contains inherent contradictions, oppositions, and antagonisms that it cannot overcome. This not only polarizes the relationship between man and nature but also sets "land against land, capital against capital, labor power against labor power. In other words, because private property isolates everyone in his own crude solitariness, and because everyone has the same interest as his neighbor, one landowner is hostile to another, one capitalist to another, and one worker to another."
Compared to Western capitalist modernization—whether it be the "modernization of China," modernization "with Chinese characteristics," "Chinese-style" modernization, or Chinese-path modernization—there are numerous qualitative differences in terms of historical context, the global situation faced, the conditions possessed, the problems to be solved, the leadership and the forces relied upon, the value principles followed, the objectives to be attained, and the historical effects objectively produced. Regarding the principled divide between Chinese-path modernization and Western capitalist modernization, one might recall General Secretary Xi Jinping’s inquiry: "Polarization or common prosperity? Materialism alone or the coordinated development of material and spiritual civilization? Draining the pond to catch the fish [5] or the harmonious coexistence of man and nature? A zero-sum game or win-win cooperation? Blindly copying the models of other countries or independent development based on our own national conditions?" This manifests the unique practical path, model, and value logic of Chinese-path modernization.
However, looking further at the historical context and world situation facing the practice of Chinese-path modernization, this practice can never bypass the capitalism that has fully developed through two to three hundred years of modernization. Western capitalist powers once caused "China to gradually become a semi-colonial and semi-feudal society; the country was humiliated, the people suffered, and civilization was covered in dust. The Chinese people and the Chinese nation suffered unprecedented calamities," resulting in the miscarriage of China's modernization. In the New Era, characterized by "changes unseen in a century," and during the great practice of promoting the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through Chinese-path modernization, Western capitalism is always present as an opposing or counteracting force. This makes the objective environment for the practice of Chinese-path modernization particularly complex, ensuring that Chinese-path modernization is by no means smooth sailing, but rather fraught with difficulties. At the same time, regarding the historical conditions and realistic foundation of Chinese-path modernization—as General Secretary Xi Jinping said—"our country is still in and will long remain in the primary stage of socialism." This is the "greatest objective reality of contemporary China." It is not only the basis for "understanding the present, planning the future, formulating policies, and advancing our cause," but also the "objective base point" for the practice of Chinese-path modernization. This objective base point determines that the profound intent of Chinese-path modernization lies in using its own practical paradigm to effectively transcend the "Caudine Forks" [6] indicated by Marx's "Theory of Eastern Societies." This realistically interprets the historical truth that "Socialism has no fixed model or immutable routine; only by closely combining the basic principles of scientific socialism with the specific realities of one's own country, historical and cultural traditions, and the requirements of the times, and through continuous exploration and summary in practice, can the blueprint be turned into a beautiful reality." Thus, the creation of Chinese-path modernization demonstrates that the Communist Party of China's understanding of building a modern socialist country is continuously deepening, its strategy is continuously maturing, and its practice is continuously enriching. Consequently, the path chosen, the principles upheld, the development strategies implemented, the series of difficult problems to be solved, and the goals pursued by Chinese-path modernization forge its unique practical form, theoretical style, and value orientation. These constitute the profound and rich connotation of the "path" in Chinese-path modernization. This is the historical and realistic situation of which we must be consciously aware when constructing the theory of Chinese-path modernization.
II. Principles and Methodology for the Theoretical Construction of Chinese-path Modernization
Theoretical construction is a creation based on reflecting practice and observing reality; it is the theoretical sublimation of specific empirical facts, thereby transcending the intuition and specificity of experience to reveal the essence and internal laws of practice. To complete this qualitative change of internal cognition, conception, and thought, one must uphold certain principles and follow a scientific methodology. It is in this sense that method is the soul of content, and the determination of methodology is the premise and foundation for constructing a theoretical system. Thus, only by determining and clarifying the methodology for the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization can we deeply analyze the essence of values and practical intent of the categories, propositions, and principles of Chinese-path modernization, thereby highlighting the intellectual leadership and value positioning of the theory for the practice.
1. Fundamental Principles to be Followed in the Theoretical Construction of Chinese-path Modernization
General Secretary Xi Jinping once pointed out: "To solve China's problems and propose Chinese solutions to human problems, we must adhere to the worldview and methodology of the Chinese people." The "worldview and methodology of the Chinese people" in the New Era is centrally embodied in the worldview and methodology of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. This is the fundamental principle and methodology that the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization must follow. The methodology for constructing the theory of Chinese-path modernization is the specific adherence to and application of this broader worldview and methodology. Thus, the fundamental principles and methodology to be followed can be summarized by the "Six Musts" (六个必须坚持) mentioned in the report to the 20th National Congress, with each "must" emphasizing a specific dimension of the fundamental principles inherent in Chinese-path modernization.
First, we must put the people first.
Upholding the supremacy of the people emphasizes that the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization must follow and implement a value standpoint that is for the people and for the benefit of the people. In doing so, we "form a theory that is loved, recognized, and possessed by the people, making it a powerful ideological weapon for the people to understand and transform the world." This enables the theory of Chinese-path modernization to arm the people—who are the subjects of the practice of Chinese-path modernization—and truly take hold of them, thereby facilitating the transformation of the "ideological weapon" and theoretical force into a "material weapon" and material force.
Second, we must maintain confidence and self-reliance. This means we must "maintain firm faith in Marxism and a firm conviction in socialism with Chinese characteristics," strengthen the "Four Confidences," and "make new contributions to the development of Marxism with a more active sense of historical responsibility and creative spirit." This highlights that the theory of Chinese-path modernization takes the internal maintenance of firm faith and self-reliance as its premise, utilizes the continuous advancement of the Sinicization and modernization of Marxism as its means, and aims to guide the practice of Chinese-path modernization with the latest theoretical achievements of Sinicized Marxism. This endows the theoretical narrative of Chinese-path modernization and its methods with a richer reality and more distinct national characteristics.
Third, we must uphold the fundamentals and break new ground. This requires that "we treat science with a scientific attitude and pursue truth in the spirit of truth" [7]. On the basis of the three "unwavering" commitments [7], we must continuously conduct practical explorations and theoretical innovations, achieving a two-way interactive generation of theory and practice to ensure the scientific and truthful nature of the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization.
Fourth, we must remain problem-oriented. This requires us to have a sharp and clear awareness of problems and to concretely implement the spirit of seeking truth from facts. This defines the reality and problem-specific nature embodied in the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization, demonstrating that this construction carries the fundamental tasks of theory and characterizing the internal tension between the theory and practice of Chinese-path modernization.
Fifth, we must apply systems thinking. Applying systems thinking stipulates that the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization must implement and embody "strategic thinking, historical thinking, dialectical thinking, systems thinking, innovative thinking, rule-of-law thinking, and bottom-line thinking." It requires that the constructed theory possess qualities of foresight, comprehensiveness, and holism.
Sixth, we must maintain a global vision. Maintaining a global vision requires that the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization fully manifest the fundamental character of the CPC: "The Communist Party of China is a party that seeks happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation; it is also a party that seeks progress for humanity and the Great Unity [8] for the world." This indicates that the practice and theory of Chinese-path modernization transcend the narrowness and parochialism of locality, class, party, or state, possessing a global and humanitarian perspective and spirit.
2. The Methodology of the Theoretical Construction of Chinese-Path Modernization
On the basis of adhering to the above principles, from an operational perspective, the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization needs to employ the following methods:
First, the historical context method. Following the historical context method means placing the practice and theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization within the broad historical context of globalization, world history, and human history. It must be examined within the historical context of socialism with Chinese characteristics, especially the great practice of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era. This specifically embodies the connotations of the "questions of China, the world, the people, and the times," highlights the theme of the "question of modernization," and clarifies the temporal characteristics, problem logic, practical solutions, and value goals of Chinese-path modernization. On this basis, it clarifies the practical significance and theoretical value carried by Chinese-path modernization and its theoretical construction, thereby achieving self-awareness in this construction. This is the basic premise for establishing the problem domain, theoretical propositions, and value interests of Chinese-path modernization theory, and it is the historical coordinate that must first be confirmed.
Second, the theoretical genealogy method. This involves placing the theory of Chinese-path modernization within the genealogy of Marxist modernization theory, Western modernization theory, and the modernization theories of other socialist countries. Comparisons are made across dimensions such as historical context, guiding ideology, leadership forces, institutional guarantees, practical logic, value standpoints, pursued goals, and historical effects. Through this comparative lens, the unique characteristics and advantages of Chinese-path modernization theory—built upon Chinese practice—are brought to light, truly highlighting its unique individuality.
Third, the systematic method of unifying "element-structure-function." Categories, propositions, or principles are the "units" that constitute a theoretical system; a theoretical system is a cluster of propositions organized according to the logical relationships between them. The theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization must first determine a series of important categories unique to it and condense the various propositions or principles of the theory. On this basis, following the systematic method of unifying element, structure, and function, it constructs the theoretical system of Chinese-path modernization.
Fourth, the keyword method. The construction of Chinese-path modernization theory takes "Chinese-path modernization" as the overarching keyword. At the same time, it involves a series of categories at different levels that mark the characteristics of Chinese-path modernization: Marxism, the leadership of the CPC, socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era, high-quality development, whole-process people's democracy, material civilization, spiritual civilization, common prosperity, a community with a shared future for humanity, a new form of human civilization, as well as struggle and harmony. Thus, the construction must follow the internal logical relationship of these categories and thematic terms, fully embodying the signified and signifier of each category.
Fifth, the textual interpretation method. The construction of Chinese-path modernization theory involves numerous practical, theoretical, and policy texts. To this end, one must follow the internal relationships between texts and the principles of textual hermeneutics to conduct deep readings—that is, following the progressive logic of explanation-understanding-interpretation. Based on the principles of unifying objectivity and subjectivity, and the whole with the parts, one strives for a multi-dimensional and multi-perspective "consultation" of the texts to achieve a fusion of horizons. This accurately grasps the connotation, meaning, and relationships of the texts, ensuring a profound textual support for the theory's construction.
Sixth, the method of ascending from the abstract to the concrete. To construct the theory of Chinese-path modernization, one must sublimate from the "sensuous concrete" to the "rational concrete" to prevent the construction from becoming externalized or abstract. This requires a deep grasp of the internal essence and laws of the practice of Chinese-path modernization, thereby revealing its richness, comprehensiveness, and depth. As Marx said: "The concrete is concrete because it is the concentration of many determinations, hence unity of the diverse. It appears in the process of thinking, therefore, as a process of concentration, as a result, not as a point of departure, even though it is the real point of departure and hence also the point of departure for observation and conception." From an operational level, as Marx also stated: "The latter [research] has to appropriate the material in detail, to analyse its different forms of development, to trace out their inner connexion. Only after this work is done, can the actual movement be adequately described. If this is done successfully, if the life of the subject-matter is ideally reflected as in a mirror, then it may appear as if we had before us a mere a priori construction." Thus, theoretical construction requires a holistic grasp of the connotations of categories, the essence of propositions, and the logic of propositions to reflect the rich determinations of Chinese-path modernization practice.
Determining these principles, methodologies, and operational methods is the basic premise for ensuring the legitimacy, correctness, and scientific nature of the theoretical construction. It is also an important way to truly and deeply grasp the essential connotation of Chinese-path modernization, thereby highlighting its basic theoretical features.
III. The Main Content of the Theoretical Construction of Chinese-Path Modernization
Following these principles and methodologies, the construction must first establish the categories and propositions that denote or characterize the practice of Chinese-path modernization, then determine the main content, and finally condense them into a theory based on their internal logical relationships.
1. Categories and Propositions of Chinese-Path Modernization Theory
The construction must confirm a series of basic categories that truly reflect, express, and identify the practice. These basic categories—characterizing and reflecting the rich connotations and essential features from multiple dimensions and levels—are the basic components of the theory.
If categories such as private property, exchange value, capital, wage labor, surplus value, profit, dependence, exploitation, monopoly, colony, and the world market characterize the economic mechanism of capitalist modernization; if representative democracy, the separation of powers, and constitutionalism characterize its political modernization; if individualism, liberalism, consumerism, and civilizational superiority characterize its cultural-value orientation; and if opposition, antagonism, polarization, systemic crisis, inequality, and colonies characterize its social features—then categories such as Marxism, socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era, the leadership of the CPC, the supremacy of the people, common prosperity, a new form of human civilization, a community with a shared future for humanity, struggle, harmony, unity, whole-process people's democracy, material civilization, spiritual civilization, political civilization, ecological civilization, social civilization, the new development philosophy, the new development paradigm, high-quality development, the modernization of the state governance system, the "Five-Sphere Integrated Plan," the "Four Comprehensives," prosperity, democracy, civility, harmony, beauty, the common values of humanity, open cooperation, independence, self-revolution, innovation, and coordinated development constitute the concrete abstract carriers that characterize Chinese-path modernization. They truly convey the uniqueness and superiority of the theory and constitute a window into its essential stipulations and specific features.
As some scholars have pointed out: "From an economic perspective, concepts such as the new development stage, the new development philosophy, the new development paradigm, high-quality development, the modern economic system, and supply-side structural reform are all important categories formed in the economic practice of Chinese-path modernization. From a political perspective, whole-process people's democracy, grassroots democracy, consultative democracy, and the patriotic united front are important categories formed in political practice. From a legal perspective, the path of socialist rule of law with Chinese characteristics and the system of socialist rule of law with Chinese characteristics are important categories. From a cultural perspective, the system of core socialist values and the core socialist values are important categories. From a social perspective, common prosperity for all and the social governance system based on collaboration, participation, and common interests are important categories. From an ecological perspective, the concept that 'lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets' and the harmonious coexistence of man and nature are important categories. From a human perspective, the new form of human civilization and a community with a shared future for humanity are important categories formed in the integrated development of Chinese-path and world modernization."
Thus, these basic categories and the theoretical propositions and discourse systems they constitute not only carry the rich and unique content of Chinese-path modernization but also characterize and transmit its core essentials. They not only reshape the understanding of modernization but also expand the depth and breadth of thinking about it. On the basis of transcending old cognitive frameworks, the paradigm of modernization is reset and sublated, allowing Chinese-path modernization—with its new paradigm features—to gain historical legitimacy and realistic rationality.
Here, it must also be noted that these new categories possess both sectoral differences and hierarchical levels. Within the theoretical structure, it is necessary to distinguish between basic categories, major categories, and derivative categories—that is, to clarify the internal relationships between them.
2. The Main Content of Chinese-Path Modernization Theory
The primary content of the theory of Chinese-path modernization consists of the systematic and theoretical induction, abstraction, and summation of the salient features, essential requirements, major principles, and strategic arrangements manifested in the practice of Chinese-path modernization. This has formed a series of propositions—including theories on guiding ideology, leadership forces, essential connotation, endogenous momentum, value goals, strategic practice, and developmental experience—which constitute the core content of the theoretical system of Chinese-path modernization.
First is the theory of the guiding ideology of Chinese-path modernization. The report to the 20th CPC National Congress proposed: "Why the Communist Party of China is capable, and why socialism with Chinese characteristics is good, is because, in the final analysis, Marxism works, and Marxism that has been Sinicized and modernized works." This demonstrates that the scientific guiding ideology formed based on the "Two Combinations"—namely Sinicized and modernized Marxism, and Marxism of the 21st century—serves as the fundamental ideological guidance for the practice of Chinese-path modernization. The theory of guiding ideology indicates the scientific and truthful nature of the conceptual leadership, value navigation, and development strategies of the practice of Chinese-path modernization. It represents an ideological, conceptual, and theoretical self-awareness regarding the series of principles followed, maintained, and implemented by Chinese-path modernization, thereby ensuring that the practice of Chinese-path modernization possesses genuine realism, feasibility, and legitimacy, highlighting the theoretical confidence inherent within it.
Second is the theory of the leadership force of Chinese-path modernization. This theory aims to highlight that the leadership of the Communist Party of China is of decisive significance for Chinese-path modernization. As General Secretary Xi Jinping stated: "'Chinese-path modernization is socialist modernization led by the Communist Party of China.' This is a qualitative statement about Chinese-path modernization; it governs the whole and governs the fundamentals." "The Party's leadership directly concerns the fundamental direction, future destiny, and ultimate success or failure of Chinese-path modernization." This is because the Party's leadership "determines the fundamental nature of Chinese-path modernization," "ensures that Chinese-path modernization anchors its goals and advances steadily over the long term," "stimulates robust momentum for building Chinese-path modernization," and "condenses the titanic strength for building Chinese-path modernization." Thus, upholding the Party's leadership is the primary principle that must be maintained in the practice of Chinese-path modernization. Practice has proven that the leadership of the Communist Party of China is the fundamental guarantee for the victories achieved in China's revolution, construction, and reform; it is the greatest advantage of the system of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and moreover, it is the realistic foundation for the steady advancement of Chinese-path modernization. This demonstrates that the leadership of the CPC is the fundamental leadership force of Chinese-path modernization and the fundamental guarantee for its smooth progress and remarkable achievements.
Third is the theory of the essential connotation of Chinese-path modernization. This theory focuses on illuminating the socialist essential attributes of Chinese-path modernization. It then proceeds from its socialist nature to the rich and unique connotations closely associated with its essence—such as its massive population, common prosperity for all, the coordination of material and ethical-cultural [9] civilizations, harmony between humanity and nature, and the path of peaceful development. These aspects comprehensively highlight the fundamental differences between Chinese-path modernization and Western modernization or traditional Soviet-style modernization.
Fourth is the theory of the endogenous momentum of Chinese-path modernization. This theory intends to reveal the fundamental source of the powerful vitality of Chinese-path modernization. This endogenous momentum originates from the ideological leadership of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, the spiritual inner drive of the Great Founding Spirit of the Party [10], the driving force of the broadest masses of the people, and the guaranteeing power of national stability and security. These "five forces" drive forward in tandem and interact with one another, thereby providing a continuous stream of endogenous momentum for the practice of Chinese-path modernization.
Fifth is the theory of the value goals of Chinese-path modernization. This theory focuses on illuminating the inherent unity of practical purpose and practical value in Chinese-path modernization. It indicates that the developmental goal of Chinese-path modernization is to build a great modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious, and beautiful, and to realize the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Building a community with a shared future for humanity and creating a new form of human advancement are the value goals of Chinese-path modernization.
Sixth is the theory of the strategic practice of Chinese-path modernization. This theory aims to reproduce the great strategic practice and process of Chinese-path modernization from the perspective of praxeology. It demonstrates that the theory of Chinese-path modernization is rooted in Chinese social practice, and that its practical, scientific, and strategic nature is manifested and shines through within that practice. Regarding strategic arrangements, it adheres to the "two-step" development strategy [11]. Regarding strategic layout, it adheres to the coordinated advancement of the "Five-Sphere Integrated Plan" and the "Four Comprehensives." Regarding strategic guidance, it adheres to the New Development Philosophy of innovation, coordination, green development, openness, and sharing. This series of strategic deployments constitutes the main content of the theory of strategic practice.
Seventh is the theory of the developmental experience of Chinese-path modernization. This theory focuses on summarizing the important experiential principles in the advancement of Chinese-path modernization, seeking to provide a reference for other late-developing modernizing countries. The main experiences include: always adhering to the consistent leadership of an advanced revolutionary party; always taking the national conditions as the fundamental footing for modernization; always maintaining the coordination of independence and external cooperation; always maintaining the unity of peaceful development and international struggle; and always holding high the moral banner of common development for all humanity. The theory of developmental experience centrally carries and reflects the global significance of the theory of Chinese-path modernization.
The theories of guiding ideology, leadership forces, essential connotation, endogenous momentum, value goals, strategic practice, and developmental experience characterize the rich connotations of Chinese-path modernization from seven dimensions and constitute its core propositions.
3. The Internal Logic of the Theory of Chinese-path Modernization The seven core propositions constituting the theoretical system of Chinese-path modernization each have different functional divisions of labor, yet they are closely interconnected and interact with one another, thereby forming an internally unified and coherent theoretical whole.
First, the theory of guiding ideology is the prerequisite of this theoretical system. Only based on the prerequisite of modernized and Sinicized Marxist guiding ideology can the other judgments have fundamental direction and ideological guidance. It can be said, therefore, that the theory of guiding ideology determines the basic orientation and fundamental value principles of Chinese-path modernization, constituting its basic tenets.
Second, the theory of leadership forces is the foundation of this theoretical system. The leadership force is the cornerstone that determines whether the theory and practice of Chinese-path modernization can advance. A strong leadership force is the fundamental guarantee for implementing the guiding ideology and directing and rallying various forces to become the main driver of modernization. It can be said, therefore, that the theory of the CPC's leadership force constitutes the "first principle" of the theoretical system of Chinese-path modernization.
Third, the theory of essential connotation is the backbone of this theoretical system. The theory of Chinese-path modernization is the theoretical condensation and sublimation of the content and form of the practice of Chinese-path modernization. The essence and connotation centrally highlight the fundamental "Chinese-path" elements, serving as the core presentation of the results of the theoretical construction. Thus, the theory of essential connotation becomes the backbone of the system.
Fourth, the theory of endogenous momentum and the theory of value goals are the keys to this theoretical system. Endogenous momentum determines whether Chinese-path modernization is sustainable, and the value goals determine its final form of realization. They play a pivotal role within the theoretical system.
Fifth, the theory of strategic practice and the theory of developmental experience are the ultimate destination of the theory of Chinese-path modernization. Theory originates from practice and is used to guide practice; practice is the final landing point of theory. The theory of Chinese-path modernization took shape within the great practice of China's modernization construction. The theory of strategic practice is the specific manifestation of the theory at the practical level, while the theory of developmental experience represents its guiding significance for global modernization theory and practice.
IV. The Contemporary Value of the Theoretical Construction of Chinese-path Modernization Chinese-path modernization is a comprehensive modernization encompassing the "Five-Sphere Integrated Plan" across economy, politics, culture, society, and ecological civilization. The comprehensiveness of its practice inherently requires the theory of Chinese-path modernization to possess a high degree of internal integration to centrally answer the major question of our times: what kind of great modern socialist country should be built and how to build it. This, in turn, reflects a deepened understanding of the laws of socialist construction from a brand-new perspective, and is an important component of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. We should understand and grasp the theory of Chinese-path modernization from the overall perspective of this scientific thought, thereby highlighting the contemporary value of its theoretical construction.
Chinese-path modernization is the "Chinese chapter of Marxism," fully embodying the contemporary vitality of scientific socialism. To theoretically summarize and refine this great practical activity is an important way to tell China's story well, highlight the China model, demonstrate Chinese wisdom, contribute Chinese solutions, and enhance the autonomy and self-confidence of the Chinese people. Its profound and rich contemporary value urgently needs to be explored in depth.
First, Chinese-path modernization and its theoretical construction, with an "independent spirit of exploration," provide a creative answer to the "modernization question," breaking through the "only-one-way" theory of the Western model of modernization. It not only shows that "there is no single development model in the world that is universally applicable, nor is there a development path that remains unchanged," but also forcefully proves through practice and successful reality that "socialism with Chinese characteristics is the dialectical unity of the theoretical logic of scientific socialism and the historical logic of Chinese social development; it is scientific socialism rooted in Chinese soil, reflecting the will of the Chinese people, and adapted to the requirements of the development and progress of China and the times. It is the only path to finishing the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, accelerating the promotion of socialist modernization, and realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation." This fully embodies the subjectivity of the Chinese people and expresses the national self-esteem and self-confidence of the Chinese nation, showing that "the Chinese people should have this confidence, and every Chinese person should have this confidence." Thus, Chinese-path modernization and its theoretical construction possess the great power to deeply reshape and enhance the self-confidence of the Chinese nation built over the last century, reaffirming the conviction that "China's affairs must be handled according to China's characteristics and China's reality; this is the correct way to solve all of China's problems."
Second, in essence, the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization is the conceptual and cognitive self-awareness of realizing the practice of Chinese-path modernization. As such, constructing this theory can provide specific concerns for the many developmental puzzles that may still arise in China's modernization process, thereby providing intellectual support for the ongoing practice and its continuous advancement over a long period, and contributing wisdom to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
Third, the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization helps to effectively enhance China's discourse power in international relations. It speaks for and justifies the practice of Chinese-path modernization and the historic achievements of contemporary China. Based on scientific theoretical construction and remarkable practical results, it strengthens the realistic persuasiveness, social leadership, and international competitiveness of socialist ideology. It assists in improving China's national image, its visibility, reputation, and level of support, providing realistic help for our country to better coordinate the "two overalls"—the domestic and international situations—to create a favorable development environment. Simultaneously, it can more eloquently falsify various tropes such as the "China collapse theory" or the "end of history," and consolidate the theoretical foundation of the "Four Confidences" [12].
Fourth, the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization has revelatory significance for civilizational innovation. The practical benefits of Chinese-path modernization prove that the new form of human advancement it has formed possesses fundamental differences compared to many Western modernization theories and civilizational development paths, holding great significance for the enrichment and innovation of the connotation of human civilization. The theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization helps reveal this significance, particularly in demonstrating the mechanism by which people-centered socialist modernization transcends capitalist modernization, which is object-centered (swollen materialism) and centered on the interests of a few (polarization). It explains how a modernization characterized by all-around human development, common prosperity for all, and harmony between humanity and nature transcends the individualistic tendencies of subject-object opposition in the Western modernization process, as well as the one-sided scientism and rationalism that lack Truth, Goodness, and Beauty and oppose reality to value. Finally, it demonstrates how a win-win modernization based on "appreciating one's own beauty and that of others, and sharing beauty together" [13] and the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits transcends the monopolistic modernization of "Western centrism" and the "clash of civilizations."
Fifth, the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization possesses civilizational significance for global development, highlighting the national characteristics of the modernization path from a civilizational dimension. This theoretical construction, by summarizing practical outcomes and integrating theoretical components, focuses on Chinese-path modernization's resolute rejection of the logic of life-and-death zero-sum games and the logic of external colonial aggression and expansion. It helps reveal the original aspiration of using the common values of all humanity to drive one's own development and build global consensus, as well as the authenticity, constructiveness, solidarity, justice, and future-oriented nature of these values. It further assists in demonstrating the CPC's commitment to "having the whole world in mind" [14] and the cultural character and spiritual temperament of the Chinese people, defined by peace and friendliness.
Sixth, the theoretical construction of Chinese-path modernization contributes to enriching and developing the genealogy of human modernization theory, expanding the practical map of human modernization. It transcends the value system based on Western modernization as its archetype [15] and unearths entirely new ideas for humanity to achieve modernization, particularly broadening the scope of path options for developing countries (underdeveloped or late-developing nations) to move toward modernization. Regarding this, General Secretary Xi Jinping has pointed out: "Chinese-path modernization is deeply rooted in excellent traditional Chinese culture, embodies the advanced nature of scientific socialism, draws on and absorbs all the outstanding achievements of human civilization, represents the developmental direction of human civilizational progress, and presents a new picture different from the Western modernization model. It is a new form of human civilization. Chinese-path modernization breaks the myth that 'modernization equals Westernization,' presents another picture of modernization, expands the path options for developing countries to move toward modernization, and provides a Chinese solution for humanity's exploration of better social systems." Consequently, as a theoretical summary of the practical plans and experiences of Chinese-path modernization, this theoretical construction can provide a reference for other countries and nations in the world that wish to maintain their independence and autonomy while seeking rapid development, contributing more Eastern wisdom and the strength of a major power to the transformation of global development.