I disagree. To your first point the people wanted out of poverty and the government made the change, they did listen, that's why the 'revolting' chinese got back in line with government, Zhang Yi Mou is the standout example, make money and settle down everyone. Now China as a whole is still helplessly poor (but much richer than before), but the future will not be dictated by the poor masses but the educated, rich youth. These Chinese youth have seen too much of the global culture to let China stagnate, they are Confucius influenced to the same extent as Sth Korea and Japan are Confucius, it wont inhibit progress to the extent you're referring to, sex outside of marriage and PDAs are becoming more commonplace (so is aids, condoms people!). China Govt doesn't give a damn about America, but the Chinese people do give a damn about south korea, japan, europe AND America. the people give a damn about what the rest of the world has achieved especially south korea and japan as they are considered Chinese offshoots. There is a sense of awe and jealousy over what these two states have been able to achieve in China, and this will be a driver. You're point about where South Korea and Taiwan enjoyed rapid development when they were not democracies, isnt that exactly the point? East Asian Confucius societies have precedent moving from authoritarian led industrial economies and shifting to so called consumption based 'democracies' that facilitate IP laws, expression, culture etc. This shift is key for China in the coming years from an Industrial based economy to a Consumption economy and China could do very well to follow the precedent set by Singapore 'Democracy' at the very least. I understand Xi's push to eliminate corruption, and the reaffirming of laws, because a firm rule of law is crucial for the shift to consumption, (whereas they are a burden in a catching up industrial economy). The real concern lies in whether the govt will make this brave transition for the better of China or will they sink in fear and do the opposite of what they have been doing for the last 20 years and regress. My money is that they will adapt and continue with the forward momentum. But it will take bravery, trust, skill and some luck.