The author finds "collective democracy" as practiced in the People's Republic of China a departure from the Western norm. It does not purport to enhance individual human rights; rather, it aims at preserving and promoting a sense of community so that no one will be neglected in the process of political development and social reform and that there will be no self-centered boundaries separating members within the society. The book allows readers to appreciate and to develop a deeper understanding of legal and political reforms being undertaken inside China.