Official Governance and Self-governance: The Reconstruction of Grassroots Social Order in China

This book explores the evolution and modernization of social order in China's grass-roots communities, highlighting the integration of traditional self-rule and authority rule by political leaders. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamental continuity of old rules sustaining social order in the modern social structure. The modernization of social order is best studied from the perspectives of constructing modern public social relations and developing grass-roots systems of social autonomy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 351 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This book presents a fresh perspective on the evolution and modernization of social order within China's grassroots communities. Traditionally, social order at this level was upheld through a harmonious blend of self-rule by the people and authority rule by political leaders. As a hybrid form of social order, it possesses both characteristics of autonomy and reflects the influence of the state apparatus. Despite the nation-state's modernization, the old rules that sustain social order at the grassroots level remain deeply ingrained and have seamlessly integrated into the new social structure. Unless we fully acknowledge this fundamental continuity, we will not be able to comprehend how social order at the grassroots level is upheld and functions. Moreover, the modernization of social order at the grassroots level is most effectively studied from the perspectives of constructing modern public social relations and developing grass-roots systems of social autonomy.

The book explores the historical roots of social order in China's grassroots communities, tracing its development from traditional self-rule to the emergence of state authority. It examines the ways in which the modern state has influenced and shaped social order at the grassroots level, as well as the challenges and opportunities that have arisen as a result of these changes.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of local institutions and social networks in maintaining social order. It argues that these institutions and networks are crucial in sustaining social stability and promoting social well-being, particularly in the face of rapid social and economic change. The book also explores the ways in which grassroots communities have responded to these challenges, developing innovative strategies for managing social change and promoting social cohesion.

Another important theme of the book is the relationship between social order and political power. It examines the ways in which political leaders and state institutions have sought to control and manipulate social order for their own benefit, as well as the ways in which grassroots communities have resisted and challenged these attempts. The book also explores the potential for grassroots social order to promote democratic governance and human rights, particularly in the context of China's ongoing political reform.

Throughout the book, the authors draw on a wide range of empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives to support their arguments. They include case studies of grassroots communities in different parts of China, as well as interviews with local officials, activists, and community members. The book also incorporates insights from social science disciplines such as sociology, political science, and anthropology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolution and modernization of social order in China's grassroots communities.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of social order and its evolution in China's grassroots communities. It provides a fresh perspective on the complex and multifaceted nature of social order, and highlights the importance of local institutions and social networks in sustaining social stability and promoting social well-being. The book also sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise as a result of rapid social and economic change, and provides insights into the ways in which grassroots communities can respond to these challenges and promote democratic governance and human rights.

Weight: 606g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811966002
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022