Abstract
Excerpt: To understand the current status of criminal justice in the People's Republic of China (P.R.C.), it is necessary to become acquainted with various influences on the creation of its laws. As in any developing country, the P.R.C. has been influenced by history, culture, and contemporary ideas. The Chinese culture has existed for over 5000 years. The great philosopher Confucius introduced the concept of the importance of society over the individual. ' This simple idea has survived in Chinese culture and has influenced the evolution of Chinese law and criminal justice. Another legacy of Confucius is deference to ancestors, leaders, and members of the elite class. These teachings encouraged class differences, a pervasive theme throughout the Chinese imperial culture.
