Neo-Gramscian Theory and Xi Jinping's Countering of US Hegemony
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2026.10680Keywords:
China, Hegemony, Consent, Xi Jinping, Neo-Gramscian, US, BRI, Counter-Hegemony.Abstract
Objectives: The paper aims to examine China’s pursuit of global hegemony and its counter to US hegemony under Xi Jinping. It explores Neo-Gramscian theory as a strategy employed by China to assert global leadership and challenge the existing hegemonic order.
Methods: The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, in addition to the national interest approach, to address the research question and test the validity of its hypotheses.
Results: The findings support the hypothesis that Xi Jinping’s preference for Neo-Gramscian hegemony is linked to securing a benign and sustainable leadership transition while avoiding a destructive military clash with the US. The paper argues that this transition is likely to be peaceful.
Conclusion: Hegemony, from a Neo-Gramscian perspective, is ideological in nature, achieved through consent by promoting civil and constructive norms. Countering existing hegemony involves forming historical blocs that advance universal norms and institutional power aligned with the interests of other states. Xi Jinping has successfully engaged the three Neo-Gramscian pillars—material, ideological, and institutional power—particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). As such, China’s approach has so far been effective in establishing an accepted form of hegemony and in countering US dominance.
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