Unpacking China's Communism: Why Wealth and Prosperity Are Not Contradictions

In a recent online video, content creator Estela Hao shed light on the nuanced relationship between communism and the pursuit of wealth, particularly within the context of China. Addressing a common misconception, Hao explained that the desire for prosperity does not inherently contradict communist ideals in the Chinese model. According to Hao, communism, as envisioned in China, is not about enforcing poverty or absolute equality of income. Instead, it emphasizes achieving a society where all individuals have equitable access to essential resources such as education, healthcare, housing, and opportunities. This goal, she asserted, necessitates the prior generation of wealth and robust economic development. Hao illustrated China's multi-stage approach, describing it as a progression through 'primary socialism' and 'advanced socialism' before reaching the ultimate goal of communism. She cited a famous quote by former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping: 'It doesn't matter if the cat is black or white, as long as it catches mice,' implying a pragmatic approach to economic growth. The video also showcased the dramatic transformation of Shenzhen from the 1980s to 2024 as an example of China's economic progress under this philosophy. Hao concluded that a communist ideology and the aspiration for economic improvement are not mutually exclusive, highlighting that the core issue lies in how wealth is generated and distributed, rather than the desire for it itself.