Ideology, Ambition, and China's Destiny: A Conversation Between Mao Zedong and Xi Jinping -- Leadership Series

If Mao Zedong and Xi Jinping met to discuss effective leadership, they would likely find several points of agreement as well as significant areas of disagreement:

Points of Agreement

1. Centralized Authority: Both leaders believe in consolidating power under a strong central leadership. Mao established a one-party state, while Xi has further centralized authority within the Communist Party1.
2. Importance of Ideology: Mao and Xi both emphasize the role of ideology in governance. They practice adapted versions of Marxist ideology infused with Chinese nationalism1.
3. Mass Mobilization: Both leaders recognize the importance of mobilizing the masses to achieve their goals. Mao focused on peasant mobilization, while Xi employs modern methods of social control1.
4. Strategic Thinking: Mao's concept of "protracted warfare" and Xi's long-term vision for China demonstrate their shared appreciation for strategic planning2.
5. Use of Political Rhetoric: Both leaders employ historical quotations and literary references in their political discourse to reinforce their authority and vision3.

Points of Disagreement

1. Approach to Stability: Mao often created chaos intentionally as a leadership tactic, while Xi prioritizes control and stability above all else3.
2. Economic Policy: Mao implemented radical economic reforms like the Great Leap Forward, whereas Xi focuses on growing an established economy within a more controlled framework1.
3. Attitude Towards Tradition: Mao sought to obliterate Chinese culture and replace it with a new spirit of nationalism. In contrast, Xi embraces aspects of Chinese tradition and history5.
4. Bureaucracy: Mao distrusted and often purged the bureaucracy, creating cycles of chaos. Xi, however, relies on a strong bureaucratic system to implement his policies5.
5. Global Engagement: Mao focused primarily on domestic revolution and independence, while Xi pursues a more active role for China on the global stage, as evidenced by initiatives like the Belt and Road7.

In conclusion, while Mao and Xi share some fundamental principles of authoritarian leadership and ideological governance, their approaches to stability, economic management, and China's role in the world reflect the different contexts and challenges of their respective eras.

Mao and Xi:

Mao Zedong transformed China through communist revolution and radical social experiments, while Xi Jinping has consolidated power to become China's most powerful leader since Mao while pursuing an ambitious vision of national rejuvenation.