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Social Connections in China

Institutions, Culture, and the Changing Nature of Guanxi

Thomas Gold editor Doug Guthrie editor David Wank editor

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Cambridge University Press

Published:5th Sep '02

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Social Connections in China cover

This volume assesses the evolving role of guanxi (social networks) in China's transforming society.

Guanxi (social networks) is among the most important and studied phenomena in China. In this volume, the editors bring together many of the top scholars of guanxi to present a dynamic view of the role of social networks in Chinese society.Guanxi, translated as 'social connections,' or 'social networks,' is among the most important studied phenomena in China today. Guanxi lies at the heart of China's social order, its economic structure, and its changing institutional landscape. It is considered important in every realm of life, from politics to business, and officialdom to street life. This volume offers scholarly thinking on the subject by top China sociologists whose work on guanxi has been influential and by scholars offering insights on the topic. The authors examine the role of guanxi in: business decisions among managers and entrepreneurs; the decisions and practices of workers; the construction of new legal institutions; the new social order. Scholars and students of China will find this a rich source of detailed information on the workings of Chinese social relationships and a valuable, new interpretation of the meaning and place of guanxi today.

'… a valuable contribution in updating the modern day classics on guanxi …'. Asian Affairs
'… the volume brings together the leading academic minds renowned for their ground-breaking work on the phenomenon, as well as less familiar names testing and developing their theories in new areas'. Asian Affairs
' … an impressive collection of essays …'. School of Oriental & African Studies
'… makes a meaningful addition to the study of China and social networks. … a fascinating study for people interested in Chinese society and social networks. It can also serve as a reference for further readings and research. … this is a very useful volume that challenges our thinking about the role of guanxi in a changing Chinese society, and it should be useful for advanced undergraduate and graduate classes.' The Journal of Asian Studies

ISBN: 9780521530316

Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 17mm

Weight: 440g

296 pages