--Zhang Weiwei, Research Fellow & Director of the World & China Studies Institute Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences

Abstract

The Chinese Dream and the American Dream can be compared across two basic levels: the Main Street level and the political level. On the Main Street level there is no major difference between the American Dream and Chinese Dream. The basis of the Chinese Dream being equal opportunities for all can easily fit the description of the American Dream. But there are fundamental differences between the Chinese Dream and American Dream on the political level. The US emphasizes the arrangement of political systems and institutions, especially as concerns the self-defined values of American--democracy, freedom and human rights that ensure the realization of the American Dream for individuals. However, in a political sense, the Chinese emphasizes the bigger picture of national prosperity, national rise and people's welfare. It stresses that following the doctrine of socialism with Chinese characteristics is the best way to achieve the Chinese Dream.

The American Dream, both on Main Street and politically, seems to have been faced with troubles and challenges in recent years. The simple truth is that during the past ten years, the income of most Americans has not increased but decreased; while simultaneously the assets of many people have depreciated. This has made many Americans begin to question the American political system and recognize its inherent flaws. To a large extent, the American democracy has been hijacked by well-organized and mobilized interest groups; the system concerning the separation of powers, of which the Americans used to be proud, has now simply become a political arrangement. Outside of the political system strong private forces can manipulate policies to their own advantages.

In contrast, China has made meaningful explorations into the ways of balancing political, social and capitalist forces. Some such efforts may be attributed to tradition, but many are innovations. These efforts provide the proper atmosphere in which the common people can achieve their "Chinese Dream"; this is the reason why the Main Street Chinese Dream is taking wing. In this sense, the efforts made by China today will have a profound impact for the entire world in the future.

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