China's new domestic reality marks a departure from the previous four decades of reform and transformation. Deng Xiaoping's formula of "hiding your strength and biding your time" has been replaced with assertiveness and displays of power. In line with Chinese tradition, all major aims, visions, proposals, and decisions are once again statedefined
and state-focused. The personal rule of Xi Jinping, often referred to as the "Chairman of Everything," dominates, creating a "Party of One." At the same time, personal connections-China's famous guanxi-have regained importance in institutions....