"Radical experimentation is the secret behind China's extraordinary rise over the last generation. This fascinating book shows China in a new light as a vast laboratory where different social, political, and economic policies are tested and compete for the attention of the leadership. It is required reading for anyone who wants to understand China as it enters a new phase in its political, economic, and social development."—Mark Leonard, director, European Council on Foreign Relations
"Florini, Lai, and Tan deliver a thoughtful account of the transformations in China occurring through local experimentation in four key areas of political reform— bureaucracy, electoral institutions, civil society organizations, and government transparency. They shed new light on the process of policy innovation and tackle the question of whether such innovations are likely to reinforce Communist Party rule or lead to greater democratization. An informative and well-written book."—Lily Tsai, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
"There are few more important questions in the world today than the political future of China. This admirable book helps the reader to understand the political and administrative changes which are taking place there. The analysis combines deep knowledge with balance and clarity. It is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary China."—Tommy Koh, chairman, Centre for International Law, and rector, Tembusu College, National University of Singapore
" China Experiments is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand why this one-party giant has not collapsed and in what political directions China may head. Florini, Lai, and Tan show how bottom-up innovative institutional reforms have introduced powerful dynamics into the country's political system. This is a useful guide for the West in formulating its policies toward China, a country which is frequently perceived as a threat."—Zheng Yongnian, professor and director, East Asian Institute, National University of Singapore
