Lee, "Indigenization with mobilization: Taiwan's developmental experience," 1987

Bo-Ywe Lee, Ph.D

Abstract (Summary)

The significance of this dissertation is based on its building up linkages between the Western concepts and the Chinese ideas of development, thus making Taiwan's development understandable in the Western context.

The dissertation starts with a brief historical background of the Republic of China on Taiwan. Then the Western ideas of development are examined in terms of their relevance to the development of the developing nations. Economic, social, and political development are three key dimensions under discussion. On each dimension, the crucial elements are identified to provide a conceptual foundation against which the development of the ROC can be analyzed. Moreover, in the context of development, four interrelated subjects, including political economy, basic needs approach, participation, and indigenization with mobilization, are discussed because they are relevant to Taiwan's development strategies in the last forty years.

On the side of Chinese ideologies concerning development, Confucianism and Dr. Sun's Three Principles of the People are the foci of research. The Confucian philosophy regarding the World of Ta-Tung, economic development, social evolution, and political democracy is explored. Dr. Sun's Principles of Nationalism, Democracy, and People's Livelihood are also presented in order. Moreover, contrasts between the Western ideas and Chinese Ideologies of development have been made to highlight their differences and similarities.

A thorough review of the ROC's development constitutes the main theme of the remaining part of this dissertation. On the economic dimension, attention is given to the economic policies and achievements of the ROC in attaining economic growth, economic equity, economic stability, and full employment. On the social dimension, the ROC's accomplishments and setbacks in promoting social capacity, improving social structure, and ameliorating social conditions are analyzed. On the political dimension, Taiwan's experience and problems are examined in the contexts of political stability, legitimacy, participation, differentiation, institutionalization, policy making, adaptability, and flexibility. Finally, alternatives are suggested to facilitate the future development of the ROC.