\u003cp\u003eUsing new research and considering a multidisciplinary set of factors, \u003ci\u003eContemporary China\u003c/i\u003e offers a comprehensive exploration of the making of contemporary China. \u003c/p\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eProvides a unique perspective on China, incorporating newly published materials from within and outside China, in English and Chinese. Discusses both the societal and economic aspects of China\u0026#8217;s development, and how these factors have affected Chinese elite politics\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eIncludes coverage of recent political scandals such as the dismissal of Bo Xilai and the intrigue surrounding the 18th National Congress elections in late 2012\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eDiscusses the reasons for\u0026#8212;and ramifications of\u0026#8212;the gap that exists between western perceptions of China and China itself\u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e