Understanding Chinese Society

Changes and Transformations

Before 1978, China was backward economically, politically, diplomatically and was extremely isolated. The country had a few diplomatic allies like North Korea, Russia and Vietnam. However, in the past three decades, the country has witnessed robust changes that have aroused the interest of the westerners in knowing more about the country.

This book provides first-hand information on China's social changes and economic transformation. It enables readers to understand the Chinese Society vividly, dynamically, and practically. It examines various facets of the Chinese society ranging from famous landmarks, popular customs, festivals, food, daily chores, etc. The book also offers tips for those who are willing to live, work and run a business in China.

Contents:

• Basic Institutions of Chinese Societies:

  • The Chinese Society in Pre-Reform China
  • Institutional Changes in Post-Reform China

• Socio-Economic Changes in the Chinese Societies:

  • Chinese Family and Kinship: Yesterday and Today
  • Chinese Women and Education: Better Off in Post-Socialist China?
  • Emergence of the Chinese New Middle Class
  • Spending without Speaking: China's Middle Class, Governmentality, and Conspicuous Consumption

• Socio-Cultural Changes in the Chinese Societies:

  • Institutionalization of Guanxi (Connections)
  • Consumerism, the Pursuit of Beauty, and Medical Tourism
  • The Legacy of "Leftover Ladies"
  • The Crisis of Masculinity of the Ant Tribes in Post-Reform China
  • Corruption and Green NGOs in Post-Reform China
  • Popular Culture, Media, and Society in Post-Reform China

• Conclusion — Rethinking Global Governance: Chinese Model in the Making in the 21st Century?

Readership: Students, academics, politicians, businessmen and practitioners interested in China's social changes and economic transformations.
Key Features:

• First-hand materials on the dramatic social, cultural and economic changes in post-reform China
• Accessible to a broad readership including students, academics, politicians, businessmen and general readers