Final answer:
The Chinese government governs its people under an authoritarian system led by the Chinese Communist Party, with constitutionally mandated power but practical restrictions on freedoms and human rights. Although China's constitution mentions personal freedoms, in practice, the state imposes heavy restrictions to maintain order and obedience.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Chinese government operates under an authoritarian system, which means it is governed by an elite group, specifically the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which has full control over the state. The CCP's authority is enshrined in the constitution of China, mandating that the socialist system be upheld without disruption. While China's constitution does provide for some personal freedoms such as the freedom of speech and assembly, in practice, these freedoms are heavily restricted by the government's interest in maintaining a cohesive society and ensuring obedience to the state.
Such an authoritarian government emphasizes the collective over the individual, often at the expense of personal liberties and human rights. For example, in China, there is significant control over the Internet and media, suppression of freedom of assembly and religion, and restrictions on reproductive rights. Despite some increased openness through economic reforms and international trade, the strict governmental rules persist.
It is important to note that authoritarian governance often results in limitations on civil liberties and may lead to violations of human rights. Democracies, by contrast, aim to protect individuals' rights and justice for all citizens, but the reality in China underscores the enforcement of authority and constraints on freedoms that characterize an authoritarian regime.