Social modernization in its true essence entails the modernization of individuals. Conversely,Western modernization focuses on the modernization of capital, promoting unilateral human development and fostering social unrest and conflicts. Marx and Engels, who have long exhibited concern for Chinese issues, possess a profound understanding of the fundamental traits of Western modernization within their theoretical framework. Their incisive and dialectical critique of the Western modernization trajectory elucidates that early-modernized Western countries and later-modernized Eastern nations are not inherently adversarial but rather reflect specific stages in the evolution of social productive forces. Furthermore,the tension between capital modernization and individual modernization manifests distinctly within actual societal systems. Capital modernization can genuinely contribute to advancing individual modernization only when the ownership of the means of production aligns with the prerequisites for comprehensive human development. Critique serves as a catalyst for better construction. As China reflects upon and transcends the context of Western modernization, Chinese-style modernization will undoubtedly continue to evolve and progress,always prioritizing the people, safeguarding the fundamental interests of all, fostering common prosperity,and achieving comprehensive modernized development for all.

　　Editor: Zhong Yao  Wei Xiaoxue

　　From:Journal of Anhui Normal University(Hum.& Soc.Sci.).2025.No.2.