Politics of Everyday China

China's rise from the 1970s to the world's second-largest economy is a transformative event, but it also hides deep-rooted problems and competing ideologies. This book aims to give an insight into China by exploring everyday life for her citizens, providing both an overview of the political situation and context with ethnographic insights.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2018
Publisher: Manchester University Press

China's remarkable journey from the depths of poverty, isolation, and stagnation in the 1970s to becoming the world's second-largest economy is a historic transformation that stands as a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. The world today holds China in greater awe and admiration than ever before, with a keen interest in its development and achievements. However, this rise also conceals numerous complex issues and competing ideologies that require careful examination.

Economically, socially, and politically, China has undergone a remarkable transformation, ushering in a new era of prosperity and opportunity. The country has witnessed a rapid expansion of its economy, with impressive growth rates and a rising middle class. China has also made significant strides in social welfare, education, and healthcare, improving the lives of millions of its citizens.

Nevertheless, this progress is not without its challenges. China faces a range of economic, social, and environmental issues that require urgent attention. The country's rapid urbanization has led to overcrowding, pollution, and resource depletion, while its dependence on exports has made it vulnerable to fluctuations in global markets. Additionally, China's political system is characterized by authoritarianism and a lack of democratic freedoms, which has raised concerns about human rights and civil liberties.

To gain a deeper understanding of China, this book aims to explore everyday life for its citizens, through their own voices and experiences. By providing both an overview of the political situation and context in China and ethnographic insights, The Politics of Everyday China seeks to offer a comprehensive and nuanced perspective that goes beyond the usual clichés and surface descriptions.

The book begins by providing an introduction to China's political system, its history, and its current challenges. It then delves into the lives of ordinary Chinese people, exploring their experiences and perspectives on various aspects of life, including work, education, family, and social interactions. Through these narratives, the book aims to shed light on the complexities and contradictions of China's development, highlighting both the achievements and the struggles of its citizens.

One of the key themes that emerges from the book is the impact of globalization on China's society and economy. China has been a major player in the global economy for decades, and its integration into the world market has brought about both benefits and challenges. On the one hand, China's exports have contributed to its economic growth and job creation, while its access to global resources and technology has facilitated its modernization. On the other hand, globalization has also led to increased competition and pressure on Chinese companies, as well as concerns about labor rights

Another important theme that the book explores is the role of the state in shaping China's development. China's political system is characterized by authoritarianism and a lack of democratic freedoms, which has raised concerns about the country's ability to address social and economic issues effectively. The book argues that while the state has played a crucial role in China's development, it is also important to recognize the limitations of its power and the need for greater political and social reform.

The book also examines the impact of China's cultural heritage on its development. China has a rich and complex history that has shaped its society and culture in profound ways. The book explores the ways in which China's cultural values, traditions, and beliefs have influenced its political system, economic policies, and social interactions. It also highlights the ways in which China's cultural heritage has been both preserved and transformed in the process of modernization.

In conclusion, China's rise from the poverty, isolation, and stagnation of the 1970s to the world's second-largest economy is a transformative event that has captured the attention of the global community. While this rise has brought about significant improvements in the lives of millions of Chinese citizens, it also hides numerous deep-rooted problems and competing ideologies. This book aims to provide an insight into China by exploring everyday life for her citizens, in their own voices. By providing both an overview of the political situation and context in China and ethnographic insights, The Politics of Everyday China seeks to offer a comprehensive and nuanced perspective that goes beyond the usual clichés and surface descriptions. Through the narratives of ordinary Chinese people, the book aims to shed light on the complexities and contradictions of China's development, highlighting both the achievements and the struggles of its citizens. By recognizing the impact of globalization, the role of the state, and the role of cultural heritage, the book argues that China's development is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a nuanced and comprehensive understanding. As China continues to play an increasingly important role in the global economy and society, it is essential that we engage with its challenges and opportunities with open minds

China's rise from poverty, isolation, and stagnation in the 1970s to becoming the world's second-largest economy is a transformative event that has captured the attention of the global community. While this rise has brought about significant improvements in the lives of millions of Chinese citizens, it also hides numerous deep-rooted problems and competing ideologies. This book aims to provide an insight into China by exploring everyday life for her citizens, in their own voices. By providing both an overview of the political situation and context in China and ethnographic insights, The Politics of Everyday China seeks to offer a comprehensive and nuanced perspective that goes beyond the usual clichés and surface descriptions. Through the narratives of ordinary Chinese people, the book aims to shed light on the complexities and contradictions of China's development, highlighting both the achievements and the struggles of its citizens. By recognizing the impact of globalization, the role of the state, and the role of cultural heritage, the book argues that China's development is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a nuanced and comprehensive understanding. As China continues to play an increasingly important role in the global economy and society, it is essential that we engage with its challenges and opportunities with open minds.

Weight: 134g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526131805