To round out this week, a primer on the man who has the mandate of heaven, Xi Jinping.

"China Against China" by Jonathan Czinn explores the complex and often contradictory perceptions of Xi Jinping's leadership in China, particularly from the perspective of U.S. observers. Thirteen years into Xi's rule, opinions remain divided: some view him as a powerful authoritarian akin to Mao, while others see his grip on power as fragile. The article highlights how Xi has identified critical weaknesses in China's development - such as corruption, economic dependence on foreign countries, and the vulnerabilities created by decades of reform and opening - and has embarked on a counterreform agenda to strengthen China's resilience.

Rather than continuing the liberalizing reforms of his predecessors, Xi has centralized power, reversed many market-oriented policies, and focused on building China's technological and military capabilities. His "dual circulation" strategy aims to reduce reliance on foreign economies by emphasizing domestic markets while maintaining international trade. This approach has helped China withstand external shocks, including the U.S.-China trade war, bolstering Beijing's confidence and challenging the assumption that openness and debate are essential for effective governance.

The article contrasts China's centralized, disciplined governance under Xi with the political volatility and dysfunction seen in the United States. While the U.S. struggles with policy inconsistency and political turmoil, China's opaque but adaptive system has demonstrated an ability to learn from mistakes and course-correct. Xi's leadership reflects a long-term vision, reinforced by tangible achievements in technology and industrial sectors, even as it sidelines broader economic efficiency.

Ultimately, Czinn argues that misunderstanding Xi's project is tied to broader American challenges. The U.S. debates China's trajectory amid its own governance crises, often failing to address its internal weaknesses. Meanwhile, China's leadership, confident in its centralized model, is steadily advancing its strategic goals, reshaping global power dynamics in the process.