The Chinese juridical order cannot be described in the classical manner by an analysis of texts. Texts are few, and, on many points, non-existent; moreover, they give hardly any authentic idea of reality — it might even be implied that they knowingly try to dissimulate it.
On the other hand, there are certain basic conceptions to be found in all fields, though somewhat veiled, which act as the foundation of the juridical edifice. These conceptions clarify existing texts and are of particular importance in the comprehension of those practices which are so difficult to analyse according to our traditional juridical classification.
China-law in Communist China-thematic report-1955-eng (full text in English, PDF)
China-law in Communist China-thematic report-1955-fra (full text in French, PDF)