THE strength of public opinion in China is well recognized despite the apparent dearth of means for its registration or mobilization. For example, the Kuomintang triumphed in 1926-28 primarily because it had gained general public support; and the Nineteenth Route Army fought at Shanghai against the desires of China's constituted leaders and in response to popular pressure. Again, the possibilities of Sino-Japanese conciliation remain practically unexplored because Chinese statesmen feel bound by the popular insistence that there shall not be the slightest tendency toward compromise.
In general, the Chinese philosophy of government is based on the reason of the governed,
Source URL: https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/china/1933-04-01/chinese-public-opinion