Cosmopolitanism from the Grassroots: A New Chinese Migrant Community

This book investigates the structure of Chinese communities overseas, comparing South Fujian, Hong Kong, and Malaysia to Southeast China. It responds to Lawrence W. Crissman's 1967 questions about the same generalized model and social organization of urban overseas Chinese derived from patterns indigenous to China.

Format: Hardback
Length: 148 pages
Publication date: 05 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive work employs a global vision, utilizing a multi-site fieldwork approach, to explore diverse regions, ranging from rural southeast China to bustling metropolises in the United States. Furthermore, a comparative case study involving the older migrant group is conducted, encompassing in-depth investigations across South Fujian, Hong Kong, and Malaysia.

Addressing the two fundamental questions posed by Lawrence W. Crissmans in 1967, this book seeks to answer: Firstly, can urban Chinese society across Southeast Asia and North America be characterized by a unified model? Secondly, does the social organization of urban overseas Chinese stem from indigenous Chinese patterns rather than being influenced by foreign cultures?

To answer these questions, the book employs a multi-site fieldwork approach, spanning various regions and communities. It explores the diverse experiences and adaptations of Chinese immigrants, shedding light on their social networks, cultural practices, and economic strategies. Through extensive research and analysis, the book demonstrates that urban Chinese society exhibits a rich tapestry of diversity and complexity, shaped by a combination of local and global factors.

The first question posits the possibility of describing urban Chinese society across different regions in terms of a generalized model. The book challenges this notion by highlighting the unique cultural, historical, and social contexts that shape these communities. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diversity within urban Chinese societies and avoiding the oversimplification of their social structures.

The second question delves into the origins of the social organization of urban overseas Chinese. The book argues that the social structures of the urban overseas Chinese are rooted in the patterns and traditions of Chinese society itself. It explores the historical factors, cultural influences, and social dynamics that have shaped the development of these communities. The book highlights the importance of understanding the historical roots of urban Chinese society in order to appreciate its complexity and diversity.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the structure and social organization of urban Chinese communities overseas. It challenges traditional assumptions and provides a rich understanding of the diverse experiences and adaptations of Chinese immigrants in their new environments. By employing a global vision and a multi-site fieldwork approach, the book contributes to our understanding of the complex dynamics of Chinese communities worldwide.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032659572