Very interesting data find and analysis. One might think that use of the honorific could be a strategy to elevate Xi to an unassailable level preceding a major Party conflict (think Mao in the years preceding the Cultural Revolution), but obviously there’s zero evidence that Xi has ANY political challengers. I agree that it’s not necessary as a prelude to his reelection as General Secretary. So, the beginning of legacy building, putting him on the same level as Mao? Fascinating stuff
Very interesting data find and analysis. One might think that use of the honorific could be a strategy to elevate Xi to an unassailable level preceding a major Party conflict (think Mao in the years preceding the Cultural Revolution), but obviously there’s zero evidence that Xi has ANY political challengers. I agree that it’s not necessary as a prelude to his reelection as General Secretary. So, the beginning of legacy building, putting him on the same level as Mao? Fascinating stuff
Not just Mao-level — going beyond him.
By my reading at the time (late 70s-early 80s), Mao literally outlived his “greatness” status. Will Xi do the same?
Longevity cuts both ways.