A Theory of Power Structure and Institutional Compatibility: China versus Europe Revisited
提出一个二维权力结构框架，分析统治者、精英与民众三者关系，解释为何中国历史上精英与民众关系更平衡，而欧洲统治者绝对权力更弱，有助于理解制度差异。
Abstract To better understand institutional differences across space and time, we propose a two-dimensional framework of the power structure among three players in society: the degree of absolute power of the Ruler over the Elites and the People, and the degree of asymmetry between the latter two in terms of their everyday rights and power. Within this framework, we show that a more absolutist Ruler prefers a more balanced Elite–People relationship. This theory helps in particular to reconcile views on the comparison between imperial China and premodern Europe that would seem contradictory in one-dimensional or two-estate frameworks: the Ruler’s absolute power was weaker in Europe, whereas the Elite–People relationship was more balanced in China. Our approach also helps more generally to interpret specific institutions and other variations in power structures.