Party Rules: Unpacking the Mass Psychology of the Chinese Party-State

• In Event: Political Participation and Policy Making in China

Abstract

Partisan identity in authoritarian regimes is understudied, yet it is pivotal to their political mechanics. This study, drawing on a novel survey within China, interrogates the relationship between partisan and national identities, particularly in reaction to state performance. Contrary to the conventional belief in their congruence in a party-state system, we uncover a notable distinction: partisan identity is less susceptible to performance legitimacy influences and, hence more stable than national identity. Our analysis of the cognitive process reveals that politically astute individuals are prone to bolster their partisan identity with favorable performance evaluations, indicative of expressive partisanship. This phenomenon, however, does not parallel the construction of national identity. Our findings highlight the critical role of partisan identity in buttressing the resilience of China’s party-state, offering fresh insights into the micro-foundations for authoritarian stability. Furthermore, by delving into and contrasting partisan and national identities, this study enriches our understanding of authoritarian psychological dynamics.

Authors

• Yanjun Liu, Peking University

• Xingyu Zhou, Peking University