Glossary
This glossary compiles key concepts, theories, and paradigms coined by Yuen Yuen Ang across her research and writing. It serves as a reference for scholars, students, and readers seeking clear and accurate interpretations of her contributions to global transformation, political economy, development, US-China, and China studies. Each entry defines a term, situates it within Ang’s intellectual forest of AIM (Adaptive + Inclusive + Moral) Political Economy, and provides links to original publications and further reading.
Adaptive Fiscal Capacity
Adaptive Fiscal Capacity refers to the ability of a government to generate, manage, and adapt its portfolio of financial resources—tax and taxless alike—in response to evolving economic, political, and environmental conditions. Unlike conventional fiscal capacity, it goes beyond the narrow focus on tax collections.
Paradigm
Paradigm refers to a system of thought based on certain core assumptions about the nature of humans or societies.
Model
In the non-statistical sense, a model means a stylized description that removes extraneous details and distills the core patterns of a real-world phenomenon.
Theory
A theory explains a problem, paired with evidence or a method for demonstrating the answer. A theory should not be based simply on assertions (otherwise, it is an opinion).