The Second Integration Is the Path We Must Follow to Achieve Chinese Modernization

The second integration is an inevitable choice for China to realize its own modernization

It is imperative that developing countries choose a modernization path that is best suited to their circumstances. While the choice of the development path is key in the early stages of economic development, at a certain point, countries must establish modernization goals that are compatible with their needs. This is the ultimate test countries must pass in order to avoid falling at the final hurdle. During this process, they must determine whether their development path is compatible with their cultural traditions and whether there is potential for cultural tensions to disrupt their progress at the critical moment of transformation.

Developing countries must thus adapt the general laws of modernization to their own specific realities. By integrating well-conceived theories from abroad with their own fine traditional culture, they can create a new culture that fits their modernization needs and follow a path to modernization that is in harmony with their traditional culture. As the world’s largest developing country, and possessing a huge population, a long history, and a rich traditional culture, China cannot simply replicate the development path of any other country. To successfully chart a path of Chinese modernization, the only choice China has is to integrate the basic tenets of Marxism, which reflect the general laws of human social development, with its own traditional culture.

The second integration clarifies the direction of Chinese modernization and highlights its unique characteristics

The first integration created the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics and charted the way forward for Chinese modernization. By fully advancing the second integration, we will reinforce our foundations and endow the path of Chinese socialism with greater historical depth and broader cultural underpinnings. This path is what determines the intrinsic and inseparable link between Chinese modernization and Chinese civilization. Just as Chinese modernization infuses Chinese civilization with modern vitality, Chinese civilization imparts a rich heritage to Chinese modernization. It ensures that we will advance Chinese modernization without losing our identity, veering off course, or stalling on the road to success. It also ensures that Chinese modernization will be truly independent and not reliant on others.

It could be said that the second integration is what defines the distinctive character of Chinese modernization and sets it apart from the traditional Western model. This form of modernization eschews the erroneous path of pursuing complete Westernization as well as the outdated approach of attempting to revive obsolete cultural traditions. Instead, by means of the two integrations, it opens up broad cultural horizons for exploring a successful path to modernization and creating a new form of human advancement.

Editor: Li Xiaoqiong