China's Vertical Democracy as an Alternative Trajectory of Democratic Development

Abstract

The article analyses the specific model of democracy that is currently realized in Chinese political system. The reasons of impossibility to implement democracy of Western-type are uncovered. The principles of vertical democracy that assumes a top-down and bottom-up democratic process of discussion and consultation before the formulation of policy decision are specified. The perspectives  for elaboration of democratic procedures are outlined. It is shown that prevalence of traditional Confucian values in Chinese society necessitates the search for alternative path of democratic development. Social groups that are not interested in development of Western-type democratic procedures are specified. The reasons of negative perceptions of Western-type democratic procedures are analyzed. Alternative approach to building democracy in China is investigated.