The term industrial maximalism (工業主義極大化) in the Chinese context refers to a development philosophy that prioritizes the establishment of a "complete industrial system". This ideology suggests that a nation must develop every possible type of industry that exists globally, regardless of its starting point, to ensure national independence and scientific leadership.
The Rise of the "Industrial Party" (工業派)
In the 2000s and 2010s, an online intellectual movement known as the Industrial Party emerged in Chinese forums. This group champions:
Technological Determinism: The belief that a country’s political and social strength is a direct function of its industrial and technological output.
Scale over Efficiency: According to scholars like Lu Feng, having a massive and diverse industrial base is a prerequisite for innovation, as advancements in one sector (e.g., semiconductors) drive progress in others through "complementary relationships".