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Rating: 
Summary: Deification of Mao
Review: This book represents a credible attempt to add new perspectives (in many cases revolutionary ones) to a significant era in the Chinese political, military, and social landscape. In my opinion, it fundamentally flawed in that the foundation of the entire work is the fervently-held premise that Mao was omnipotent during this relevant period. In attributing God-like qualities to this one mortal politician/demagogue, Dr. Teiwes and Dr. Sun create the universe of possible conclusions in advance of the critical analyses. Therefore, a tragedy of incredible magnitude (starvation of +35 million Chinese) is attributed not to a convergence of critical events (including environmental, political, and social) but instead to the actions or inactions of one man. Dr. Teiwes is known as a strong proponent of Mao-centrist philosophy so it is understandable that he holds Mao in this true sense of filial piety. Mao truly would be proud. I think that this book has some value to the scholar of Chinese history and the legions of Mao proponents worldwide.
Rating:
Summary: Deification of Mao
Review: This book represents a credible attempt to add new perspectives (in many cases revolutionary ones) to a significant era in the Chinese political, military, and social landscape. In my opinion, it fundamentally flawed in that the foundation of the entire work is the fervently-held premise that Mao was omnipotent during this relevant period. In attributing God-like qualities to this one mortal politician/demagogue, Dr. Teiwes and Dr. Sun create the universe of possible conclusions in advance of the critical analyses. Therefore, a tragedy of incredible magnitude (starvation of +35 million Chinese) is attributed not to a convergence of critical events (including environmental, political, and social) but instead to the actions or inactions of one man. Dr. Teiwes is known as a strong proponent of Mao-centrist philosophy so it is understandable that he holds Mao in this true sense of filial piety. Mao truly would be proud. I think that this book has some value to the scholar of Chinese history and the legions of Mao proponents worldwide.
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