The Evolution of Liberty and Equality in China over the Last 70 Years and Related Questions

In the 30 years before the reform and opening up, historical conditions led to a situation where “there was relatively more equality and significantly less freedom.” Initially, this emphasis on equality played a crucial role in reducing inequalities in Chinese society, significantly liberating social productivity and motivating people to start businesses and work hard. However, the neglect of freedom led this overemphasis on equality to evolve into extreme egalitarianism, which proved detrimental and negatively impacted nearly all aspects of China’s socio-economic development. The 40 years since the reform and opening up can be characterized by “relatively more freedom but less equality.” However, the freedoms experienced during this period have been rudimentary and disconnected from equality, adversely affecting China’s development. Freedom and equality should be regarded as an organic whole, mutually reinforcing and promoting each other. If one is separated from the other, it will inevitably become harmful over time.