ABSTRACT

With China’s rapid advancements in urbanization and industrialization, there has been significant labor movement away from agriculture in the rural regions. Using four village case studies, Song examines how this restructuring process affects the rural population.

Much of her research is centered on their various perceptions and reactions towards the market reforms. How are their lives reshaped through the employment transition? Along with the changes of family life and the diversification of development models, how do an individual’s gender and background play a role in determining employment? These are the broad questions that Song addresses through detailed analysis of four different villages, in light of China’s move towards decentralization of its rural economy.

chapter 1|21 pages

Introduction

chapter 3|23 pages

Bei Village

Rural industries and private businesses

chapter 4|18 pages

Su Village

Collective legacy and the “new socialist countryside”

chapter 5|22 pages

Han Village

Urban dream, tied migration, and male bonding

chapter 6|20 pages

Ning Village

Integrated or marginalized in urbanization

chapter 7|19 pages

Conclusion