Neil Collins is Professor and Head of the Department of Government, University College, Cork, Ireland
Andrew Cottey is Senior Lecturer in the Department of Government, University College, Cork, Ireland

Introduction
1. Chinese Politics: The legacy of history
2. The party-state
3. The state apparatus and centre-local relations
4. Political change and its limits: Democratisation with Chinese characteristics
5. The national question in Chinese politics
(Appendix A - official ethnic groups)
6. Foreign policy
Conclusion
Bibliography

Provides a comprehensive introduction to China's political system, outlining the major features of the Chinese model and highlighting its claims and challenges.