Stability and information are concepts with a prominent place in economics literature. The use of both concepts in a theoretical context is however, rare. In contrast to this situation, the Chinese government regularly draws a connection between information, the dissemination of information and stability. Information which can be assumed to trigger dissatisfaction or unrest among the general public or a part thereof should not, if possible, be made broadly available. This is especially clear in Chinese media politics. Just recently, such a directive of this sort was made: 'The media should not report anything that is going to affect stability, however fair and objective the report may be'.
The position of the Chinese government stands in contrast to the internal Chinese discussion about the 'Knowledge Society', to efforts to erect and/or expand a modern information infrastructure and to further open China`s economy. The contribution which follows summaries evidence from economic research on stability and information, their economic meaning and possible relationships. Theses about the relationship between stability and information policies in the Chinese context follow. This contribution represents the early stage of a DFG supported research project. Through further theoretical development and empirical research hopefully it will be possible to examine and support the theses and conclusions presented here.
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