This course examines the historical origins and development of major schools of political thought in modern and contemporary China, paying special attention to the period since 1949. The Chinese response to the introduction of Marxism–Leninism, and the role played by Mao Zedong in "sinicizing" various aspects of Marxist–Leninist ideology will be dealt with thoroughly. Students will be required to read the original works of major political thinkers. If possible, other important political ideologies, such as liberalism, socialism and democratic thinking, will also be addressed.