This book analyzes in detail differing interpretations of the rule of
law in Western legal systems and in the People's Republic of China. As
the rule of law is seen by many as a prerequisite for China's future
development, politicians, activists and entrepreneurs from China and
from the West alike have long been calling for adherence to this
principle, which is constitutive of Western democracies. All these
groups use the same words, but do they truly share the same idea?
In order to address this question, the book compares the "Rule of Law
with Chinese characteristics," as propagated by Chinese leaders and in
official Chinese publications, to different applications of the rule of
law as it is understood in Western civilization. In particular, the
author takes a closer look at the implementations of recognized core
elements of the rule of law in representative Western countries, which
include the separation of power, the supremacy of law, the protection of
fundamental rights, and the independence of the justice system.