This course examines the revolutionary politics and the post-revolutionary reforms that have made China what it is today: a high-growth economy that is neither socialist nor capitalist; a rapidly changing society increasingly polarized between rich and poor; and a puzzling political regime that remains Leninist in structure but pursues political reforms to adapt itself to broad socio-economic changes. The study of Chinese politics is in many respects an attempt to make sense of all these changes. Throughout this survey of Chinese politics, we will pay close attention to how those in power exercise authority, how political conflict arises and is resolved, and how citizens make political demands.