JPRS-CAR-88-056: Political

This document, JPRS-CAR-88-056, dated September 19, 1988, is a compilation of political articles translated from Chinese sources. The primary focus of the text is the ongoing debate regarding Marxist theory, the interpretation of Mao Zedong Thought, and the necessity of ideological reform within the Chinese political landscape. The articles explore the 'truth criterion,' the historical evolution of socialist thought, and the challenges of applying rigid ideological frameworks to a changing society. Several authors discuss the need to move beyond dogmatism, emphasizing that Marxism must be tested through practice and that the party should not fear criticism. The text also addresses the 'crisis of Marxism' as discussed by Fudan University graduate students, suggesting that current textbooks are outdated and that new research is required. Amidst these theoretical discussions, there is a brief, incidental mention of 'flying saucers' (UFOs). The author uses the term as a philosophical example to illustrate how human knowledge evolves: initially, people saw unidentified flying objects, but through research and study, the concept was defined and named. This serves as a metaphor for the broader argument that political and social concepts must be continuously re-evaluated and refined through empirical observation and practice rather than relying on static, historical interpretations.