A History of Qing Economy Studies

The book "The Rise and Fall of Economic Imperialism" explores the trend of China's economic history, reflects the gain and loss of former academic paradigms, and explores an approach to studying economic-social history from practice and responding to "economic imperialism" constructively.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 13 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

China's economic history is a captivating journey that spans centuries, showcasing the trends, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped the country's development. From the ancient dynasties to the modern era, China has experienced a remarkable transformation, driven by a variety of factors, including political, social, and economic changes.

One of the most significant trends in China's economic history is the shift from a traditional agricultural society to a manufacturing and industrial powerhouse. This transition was facilitated by the introduction of modern technologies, such as the steam engine, the telegraph, and the railroad, which revolutionized production and transportation. As a result, China's economy grew rapidly, becoming one of the world's largest and most influential economies.

However, this economic growth was not without its challenges. China faced a number of economic crises, including the Great Depression of the 1930s and the Cultural Revolution of the 1960s and 1970s. These crises were caused by a variety of factors, including political instability, social unrest, and economic mismanagement. Despite these challenges, China's economy has continued to grow, driven by a strong sense of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Another significant trend in China's economic history is the increasing importance of foreign investment and trade. China has opened up its economy to the world, attracting billions of dollars in foreign investment and establishing trade partnerships with countries around the globe. This has led to the growth of China's exports, which have become a major driver of the country's economic growth.

However, this economic growth has also led to concerns about economic imperialism and the exploitation of China's workers and resources. Some critics argue that China's economic policies are designed to benefit multinational corporations at the expense of domestic workers and the environment. This has led to calls for greater economic regulation and social welfare policies to ensure that China's economic growth is sustainable and equitable.

In response to these concerns, there has been a growing movement in China to study economic-social history from a practice-based perspective. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context and social dynamics that have shaped economic development in China. It also seeks to develop an approach to studying economic-social history that is responsive to the construct of "economic imperialism," rather than simply dismissing it.

One example of this approach is the work of Professor Wang Shaoguang of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Professor Wang has argued that the study of economic-social history should be integrated with the study of political economy, in order to understand the complex relationships between economic development and political power. He has also proposed a framework for studying economic-social history that emphasizes the role of social movements and collective actions in shaping economic development.

Another example of this approach is the work of Professor Xueqin Wang of the Beijing Institute of Technology. Professor Wang has argued that the study of economic-social history should be integrated with the study of technology and innovation, in order to understand the role of technological change in shaping economic development. He has also proposed a framework for studying economic-social history that emphasizes the role of social institutions and cultural values in shaping economic development.

In conclusion, China's economic history is a complex and multifaceted journey that reflects the gain and loss of former academic paradigms. From a traditional agricultural society to a manufacturing and industrial powerhouse, China has experienced a remarkable transformation, driven by a strong sense of entrepreneurship and innovation. However, this economic growth has also led to concerns about economic imperialism and the exploitation of China's workers and resources. In response to these concerns, there has been a growing movement in China to study economic-social history from a practice-based perspective, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical context and social dynamics that have shaped economic development. This approach seeks to develop an approach to studying economic-social history that is responsive to the construct of "economic imperialism," rather than simply dismissing it. By integrating the study of political economy, technology and innovation, and social movements and collective actions, China can continue to grow its economy while ensuring that it is sustainable and equitable for all its citizens.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032589343