Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No. 4, 2022

Foundational Issues of 21st Century Marxism

(Abstract)

Han Qingxiang

This article explores the foundational issues of 21st century Marxism from an academic perspective by applying the explanatory framework of “the unity of continuity and discontinuity,” “spatio-temporal analysis” and “the dialectical relationship between the universal and the particular” to the historical development of Marxism in the 21st century, and provides an in-depth explanation of its original contribution. 21st century Marxism is a concept closely related to the historical changes in capitalism and the historical shift in the center of the socialist movement, and is a hallmark Chinese theory going global and into the future. With the historic shift of the center of the world socialist movement to contemporary China in the 21st century, Chinese theorists have put forward the thesis of “developing 21st century Marxism,” which is also a theme of milestone significance and in the shaping. We need to have a coherent understanding of 21st century Marxism not only in terms of the continuity and phases of its historical development, but also in terms of holding fast our convictions, reflecting on modernity, keeping up with the times, having a global vision and leading the age. 21st century Marxism should be developed based on our continuing adherence to Marxist fundamental positions, values, ideals and beliefs, basic principles and methodology; on in-depth study of the logic of the evolution of modernization in contemporary China and the world; on study of the major contemporary issues raised in the context of the “Two Overall Situations,” the interaction between contemporary China and the world, and the coexistence of socialism and capitalism; and on study of the relationship between the Sinicization of Marxism, contemporary Chinese Marxism and 21st century Marxism. Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era is the 21st century Marxism. It provides a “typical sample” with world historical significance for the development of Marxism, making an original practical, theoretical and historical contribution and providing a scientific and theoretical system for explaining today’s world and observing, grasping and leading the times.