Today's intellectuals in China inherit a mixed tradition in terms of their relationship to the state. Some follow the Confucian literati watchdog role of criticizing abuses of political power.
Marxist intellectuals judge the state's practices on the basis of Communist ideals.
Others prefer the May Fourth spirit, dedicated to the principles of free scholarly and artistic expression. In this stimulating work, twelve China scholars examine that troubled and changing relationship. Specialists examine the situation with respect to economists, lawyers, scientists and technocrats, writers, and humanist scholars in the climate of Deng Xiaoping's policies, and speculate about future developments. This book will be a valuable source of information for anyone interested in the changing scene in contemporary China and in its relations with the outside world.