The Representation of Xi Jinping in Chinese High School Ideology and Politics Textbooks

Background/purpose. In recent years, the Chinese government has increasingly integrated "Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era" into national education policy. This study investigates how Xi Jinping’s ideology is represented in Chinese high school ideology and politics textbooks, highlighting the state’s use of education for ideological dissemination and political socialization.

Materials/methods. This study adopts a historical and content analysis approach and draws upon a comprehensive dataset of officially sanctioned high school textbooks. The analysis focuses on recurring themes, discursive strategies, and ideological narratives concerning political, economic, and cultural representations of Xi Jinping's leadership.

Results. The findings reveal that Xi Jinping is prominently depicted across multiple thematic areas, including (1) traditional culture, (2) national ideology, (3) socialism, (4) the role of the Communist Party of China (CPC), (5) economic reforms, and (6) international cooperation. These portrayals collectively emphasize Party loyalty, national rejuvenation, and ideological unity.

Conclusion. Chinese high school textbooks serve as powerful instruments for reinforcing state ideology, portraying Xi Jinping as a political leader and as the symbolic core of national identity and progress. The emphasis on a singular ideological framework limits critical engagement, positioning students within a tightly controlled political and cultural development narrative. This study contributes to the broader discourse on authoritarian resilience and political education by illustrating how state narratives are embedded in school curricula. It underscores the need for further research into the educational mechanisms that shape youth political consciousness and the long-term implications for governance and civic identity in China.

Keywords: Xi Jinping, ideology and politics textbooks, socialism with Chinese characteristics, Chinese national ideology, political education in China

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