Market reforms, nationalism, and the expansion of urban China's moral horizon

Jankowiak, William R.

article

Market reforms, nationalism, and the expansion of urban China's moral horizon

Urban anthropology and studies of cultural systems and world economic development • 33 (2/4) • Published In 2004 • Pages: 167-210

By: Jankowiak, William R..

Abstract
This study tests the theory of whether or not China's opening up to the global economy also expanded the people's moral universe beyond their insular work units. The author notes general trends in growing nationalism, concern for the country's prestige in the world, and a growing philanthropic sector supporting the theory of expansion. Also tested in this study is how people ranked professions before and after China's opening up: finding an increased esteem for educators, professionals and businesspeople, and less esteem for cadres and government officials. A greater empathy for peasants was also noted. All point to an expanding morality.

Subjects

Mercantile business

Occupational specialization

Status, role, and prestige

Accumulation of wealth

culture

Region