The Socioeconomics of Nationalism in China: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives

This book analyzes Chinese nationalism from the perspective of social economics, using game theory and behavioral economics to analyze inter-ethnical and international conflicts in historical and contemporary China. It posits that national status is a luxury while material consumption is a necessity, leading to popular nationalism increasing with economic development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of Chinese nationalism, offering a unique perspective from the field of social economics. It posits a conceptual framework that treats national status as a luxury, while material consumption is deemed a necessity in people's preferences, thereby suggesting that popular nationalism tends to flourish as economic development progresses. Through extensive use of game theory and behavioral economics, the book analyzes inter-ethnic and international conflicts in historical and contemporary China, shedding light on the complex dynamics that shape China's interactions with the world.

The authors' economic approach to nationalism offers fresh and critical insights into Chinese historical events and relations with foreign countries. It helps unravel perplexing puzzles such as why the majority of Chinese supported the Manchus as their rulers after the collapse of the Ming dynasty, why the Qing dynasty declared war against over eight foreign powers during the Boxer Rebellion despite being aware of China's inferiority, and the underlying causes of the 1962 Sino-Indian War and the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese War. Additionally, the book explores the responsibility behind the bombing of the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade, a pivotal event in China's foreign relations.

This book appeals to a wide range of scholars and researchers interested in nationalism, China studies, international relations, history, and political economy. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the complex dynamics of Chinese nationalism and its implications for the country's development and global interactions. By employing social economic theories and rational choice analysis, the book offers valuable insights into the complex web of factors that shape China's national identity and its interactions with the world.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032030173