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As China becomes more wealthy and confident on the global stage, it also expects to be respected and accommodated as a major global force - and a formidable civilisation. This second edition of China Story Yearbook surveys China's regional posture, urban change, social activism and law, the Internet, history and thought that resonate beyond the year 2013-2014. Since the late-nineteenth century, efforts to create modern societies in East Asia have involved redefining ancient civilisations and integrating new ideas into old cultures. The project of 'civilising' is not unique to the region. Worldwide, governments, businesses and educators have long tried to mould the economic, social and political behaviours of their citizens (or consumers, sometimes blending the two concepts). The Chinese Communist Party uses the expression 'civilisation' (wenming 文明) within China to improve civic standards, promote patriotism, evoke pliable cultural and political traditions and limit dissent. As China becomes more wealthy and confident on the global stage, it also expects to be respected and accommodated as a major global force - and a formidable civilisation.

Built by the Ming emperor in the fifteenth century as the earthly reflection of the realm of the Jade Emperor - whose court was said to rule over the whole universe - the Forbidden City consists of a series of courtyards that surround the majestic Hall of Supreme Harmony.