Paradigm Shifts in Chinese Studies

This book explores the shifts in paradigms in China studies,both inside and outside of China,and their implications for understanding China's social change and development. It argues that the "modernization theory" is insufficient and calls for a reexamination of the field. The book will appeal to a wide readership, including scholars, graduate students, and upper-division undergraduate students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 309 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This book explores the evolution and transformation of paradigms in China studies, both within and outside China, in the context of recent shifts in US-China relations. The "modernization theory" that has served as the theoretical framework of US engagement with China over the past four decades has been deemed insufficient, suggesting the need for a reevaluation of the field of China studies. Scholarly paradigms shifts have historically been closely linked to significant social transformations. As we navigate an era of uncertainty, it is valuable to reflect on past paradigms in China studies and consider the potential for new paradigms to emerge. The book aims to appeal to a broad audience, including scholars, graduate students, upper-division undergraduate students of China studies, and Asian studies.

The shifts of major theories, methods, and paradigms in China studies in the West have been closely intertwined with social change. For instance, the rise of Marxism-Leninism in the early 20th century provided a framework for analyzing China's political and economic development, while the post-World War II era saw the emergence of the Cold War paradigm, which focused on competition and conflict between the US and the Soviet Union. In the 1980s, the rise of neoliberalism and the Washington Consensus marked a shift in focus towards market-oriented economic development and political liberalization in China.

However, the recent de-coupling between the US and China has led to a reevaluation of these paradigms. The "modernization theory" is no longer seen as a viable framework for understanding China's development, as it fails to account for the country's complex social, political, and economic dynamics. This situation has prompted scholars to explore new paradigms that can better capture the changing nature of China's relationship with the world.

One potential new paradigm is the "complex interdependence" model, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of China and the rest of the world. This model recognizes that China's development is influenced by global trends, such as economic globalization, technological innovation, and political instability, and that China's actions have consequences for the global economy and political order. Another new paradigm is the "multidimensional governance" model, which emphasizes the role of various actors, including governments, businesses, civil society, and social movements, in shaping China's development. This model recognizes that China's development is not solely driven by state-level decisions but also by the interactions and negotiations between these different actors.

In conclusion, the evolution and transformation of paradigms in China studies are a reflection of the changing nature of China's relationship with the world. While the "modernization theory" has been a valuable framework for understanding China's development, it is no longer sufficient in the context of the recent de-coupling between the US and China. New paradigms, such as the "complex interdependence" and "multidimensional governance" models, offer promising avenues for understanding China's development in the future. By exploring these new paradigms, scholars can better grasp the complex and multifaceted nature of China's social, political, and economic transformations.

Weight: 437g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811680342
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022