The Basis of Mao Zedong's Political Thought (1917-1935) (Illustrated Edition)

Author: (American) Brayton Wakeman
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: My contention is that the interaction between theory and practice aimed at effective revolutionary action is the fundamental characteristic of Mao Zedong's own developmental model and the main feature of his political thought. Mao's political paradigm for the innovation of Chinese and Marxist political thought only becomes easy to understand when it is authoritatively and comprehensively elaborated between 1936 and 1945. However, Mao's emphasis on the primacy of practice should serve as a warning not to begin studying his political thought with its systematic exposition. My intention is not simply to introduce a prehistory of Mao Zedong's political thought, but to take a step toward seriously understanding, evaluating, and applying Mao's political thought. —Brayton Wakeman
As a study of the prehistory of Mao Zedong's political thought, this book interprets his early political thought within a living organism by examining the practical foundations of his writings and their political context. It argues that the interaction between theory and practice aimed at effective revolutionary action is the fundamental characteristic of Mao's own developmental model and the main feature of his political thought. The book also includes two important essays by the author related to Mao Zedong studies as appendices, which helps readers grasp the research approach and academic context of the study. It is suitable for university teachers, students, and political science enthusiasts and cadres. This book is translated from the 1982 edition published by the University of Hawai'i Press and includes numerous valuable and exquisite illustrations.
My contention is that the interaction between theory and practice aimed at effective revolutionary action is the fundamental characteristic of Mao Zedong's own developmental model and the main feature of his political thought. Mao's political paradigm for the innovation of Chinese and Marxist political thought only becomes easy to understand when it is authoritatively and comprehensively elaborated between 1936 and 1945. However, Mao's emphasis on the primacy of practice should serve as a warning not to begin studying his political thought with its systematic exposition. My intention is not simply to introduce a prehistory of Mao Zedong's political thought, but to take a step toward seriously understanding, evaluating, and applying Mao's political thought. —Brayton Wakeman