The Pursuit of Power : Political Power vs Individual Freedom: China’s Control and Surveillance

Abstract: China has implemented social control mechanisms that operates through various technologies, such as surveillance, a social credit system and online censorship.  The aim is to gain insight in how these mechanisms might infringe on the human rights of their citizens, and especially the minority group Uyghur. The thesis uses a content analysis method that draws on theories and concepts of biopower, panopticism and governance. The analysis shows that various mechanisms and regulations implemented by the State is to promote  compliance and a harmonious society and that trust breaking can lead to implications .The conclusion holds that all citizens are being affected by the CCP’s mechanisms and ideology, but the group that is mainly deprived of their rights are the Uyghurs living in Xinjiang.