Another Invisible Hand: The Transformation of Social Structure

This book explores the process of China's social structure transformation and its economic consequences, focusing on the "another invisible hand" of social structure transformation. It is written for scholars, researchers, and students across the social sciences and area studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The allocation of resources and economic development in China have been significantly influenced by two distinct "hands": one tangible, such as government intervention, and the other intangible, such as market regulation. However, a third, often overlooked factor, the transformation of social structure, has also played a crucial role in shaping China's development trajectory. This two-part study delves into the intricate process of social structure transformation in China, while simultaneously conducting a theoretical examination of its characteristics.

In the first part, the authors provide a comprehensive theoretical analysis of social structure transformation and its economic implications. They explore the various mechanisms and factors that drive this process, including economic globalization, technological advancements, social inequality, and political changes. The authors argue that social structure transformation has profound economic consequences, both in terms of productivity and growth and in terms of social unrest and instability.

The second part of the study focuses on examining the transformation of urban and rural societies in contemporary China from different perspectives. The authors explore the experiences of state-owned enterprises, laid-off urban workers, rural migrants, and rural industrialization, among others. They analyze the challenges and opportunities these groups face in the process of social structure transformation, as well as the impact of these changes on China's overall economic development.

The book is written with scholars, researchers, and students across the social sciences and area studies in mind. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of social structure transformation in China, making it an invaluable resource for those interested in economic development in China, sociology, urban studies, rural studies, contemporary China studies, and more.

In conclusion, this two-part study offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of China's resource allocation and economic development. By examining the role of social structure transformation, the authors shed light on the complex factors that have shaped China's development trajectory and provide insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of China's social and economic landscape.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032257457