The Many Roads to Becoming Modern

Book excerpt: The Many Roads to Becoming Modern explores "collectivism" in the context of contemporary rural Chinese history. Following the history of a southern village from 1949 to the present, the author attempts to understand the origin and current state of "collectivity" in rural China. Along with other unique Chinese institutions, such as the Danwei (work-unit) system, rural collectivism is the basis of New China’s economic development. Previous academic research on rural collectivism in general is limited to scattered historical fragments, this book, however, is an empirical study of the actual historical process of rural collectivism. Focusing on presenting a mechanism for universal interpretation, the author illustrates the development of rural collectivism in southern Jiangsu using the historical research method, revealing the characteristics of the Chinese society as it is. Within seven chapters, the author explains in detail the core features and evolution mechanism of the collective model throughout different periods since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. This book will be of interest to all levels of students and scholars who study contemporary China, modern Chinese history and collectivism, especially those who are concerned with rural area development and the land systems.