New Chinese textbook warns against rock ‘n’ roll and internet as tools for Western subversion

In a bold move reflecting China’s tightening grip on ideological control, a newly launched college textbook has identified rock ‘n’ roll, pop music, and the internet as potential instruments for Western “colour revolutions” aimed at influencing Chinese youth. The textbook, titled National Security Education Reader for College Students, was officially unveiled last week and will be incorporated into foundational national security courses across universities.

Key messages of the textbook

Vigilance against Western culture: The textbook cautions students to remain alert to the influences of Western popular culture, asserting that these cultural elements can serve as covers for subversive activities orchestrated by foreign powers. It emphasizes the internet as a “key channel of communication” that can facilitate these influences.

Historical context: The text references past events such as the 2010 Jasmine Revolution in Tunisia and the Arab Spring as examples of how Western-backed movements have led to national instability. It frames these occurrences as cautionary tales of how foreign ideologies can disrupt societal harmony.

Ideological education: This initiative aligns with President Xi Jinping’s ongoing campaign to strengthen ideological education among young people. Xi has previously warned of the dangers posed by “subversive foreign forces” seeking to “Westernize” Chinese youth, emphasizing the need for a robust national security education.

Broader implications

This textbook is part of a larger strategy by the Chinese government to instill a sense of national security awareness among students, reflecting a growing concern about Western influence in Chinese society. The Ministry of Education has encouraged the widespread adoption of this textbook, which is also being introduced in primary and junior high schools. As China continues to grapple with increasing globalization and the influx of foreign ideas, this latest educational effort underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding its ideological framework and promoting a cohesive national identity.

The emphasis on vigilance against perceived Western threats highlights the delicate balance Beijing seeks to maintain between modernization and ideological purity. With the introduction of such materials, the Chinese government aims to cultivate a generation of students who are not only aware of national security risks but also equipped to uphold the values of socialism and resist foreign influence.

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