This text takes the reader beyond the headlines to explore a China few Westeners have seen. It argues that the great gap between what specialists understand and the general public believes has led to distorted and potentially dangerous misunderstandings of China.

This unique book takes the reader 'beyond the headlines' to explore a China few Westerners have seen. The authors argue that the great gap between what specialists understand and the general public believes has led to distorted and potentially dangerous misunderstandings of China. Seeking to bridge that gap, a group of prominent scholars and activists challenge readers to move past the usual images of China presented by the media and to think about the common problems shared by China and the United States.