The Ideological Factor of Internet Governance in China: Features and Tools in the Context of Confrontation with the United States

Abstract

The Internet turned into an arena of ideological struggle. It benefits those who have control over data flows and opinion market. In the information space, previously insurmountable barriers are easily bypassed, the number of generators of “narratives” is increasing exponentially. Strategic success achieved in the information field can have a significance comparable to political or military success. An example is the confrontation between key players in cyberspace — the US and China. Their statehood is based on ideology — left-wing liberalism, transhumanism and americano-centric globalism on the one hand, innovative Marxism and socialism with Chinese characteristics on the other. Despite differences in fundamental values, political and social systems, Washington and Beijing actively use Internet tools to seek support, expand governance and propaganda. The winners in the ideological struggle are not yet clear. But certain dynamics can be fixed. The US has to admit that its belief in the ubiquity of liberal democracy and the “technological optimism” of the early 21st century have not been justified. The Internet has failed to change China – China has changed the Internet for itself. The political and ideological conditions of the PRC and the efforts of the CPC have formed unique parameters for the development of network. The party managed to create a system of distributed control over the Internet, users and content, allowing leadership to manage the situation on the “battlefield”. The US and its allies in the fight against “autocrats and authoritarians” are increasingly slipping into the fight against dissent in their own countries. During this struggle the West is becoming more intolerant and authoritarian.