The political system of the Qing empire

Nepomnin O. E. (1935-2020), sinologist and orientalist with wide research interests, belonged to the most prominent theorists of development Eastern societies. In April 2021, based on Department History East Institute Oriental Studies Russian Academy Sciences, seminar named after — “Discussion problems history East” began its work. The continues tradition scientific events dedicated a broad discussion controversial issues from ancient times present day. Continuing topics raised by author in previous issues: cyclical nature historical process China [Nepomnin, 2019] differences statehood Japan 2020], this article is devoted analysis political structure Qing Empire. examines despotism imperial China, decomposing it into components “power-property” “class-state” comparing processes medieval West. powerful state machine Empire, suppressing any manifestations autonomy population, did not give chance for emergence class active “private traders”, religion that could be opposed state, or free cities. concludes conditions ubiquitous an inert society, Chinese preserved itself Western linear path was inaccessible long time. walked circle, avoiding crises allowed enter new round formational development.