Will China retreat to seclusion, just like it did in the 1960s? The Chinese are divided on this issue. A considerable portion of the leadership seems to be willing to return to seclusion in general. It is easier to keep society stable in an isolated environment. Wider openness to the outside means more pressure to reform and undermines the interests of some interest groups, leading to high political risks. Just like in North Korea, a state of isolation is helpful for regime stability. In addition, as the successor to a government experienced in managing the country in an isolated environment from the 1949 to late 1970s, the current government is confident it can do so again.
