Power Ascension Theory and Policymaking: Evidence from China

• In Event: Frontiers of Public Policy Theories

Abstract

This paper develops a new theoretical framework, known as power ascension theory, that can account for the content of policy outcomes in both democratic and non-democratic political systems. This theory focuses on the similarities that exist in the processes through which individuals seeking their nation’s highest executive offices achieve such positions. It also shows that, after ascending to such positions of power, the policy courses these newly elevated leaders follow correspond to the issues they emphasized while navigating power ascension processes in their respective countries. We test this theoretical framework by applying it to policy making in China under Xi Jinping’s, particularly his first term in office. In this process, we create a unique set of data that reveals the content of Xi’s annual speeches from 2000 to 2014, and we then use these data to determine how closely the issues he emphasized correspond to the course of policy he followed in his first two years as General Secretary. This analysis will reveal how Power Ascension Theory provides a path to a clearer understanding of the content of policy outcomes in both nondemocratic and democratic nations

Authors

• Dennis P. Patterson, Texas Tech University

• Kayee Zhou, The University of Texas at Austin