China is the undisputed economic juggernaut of the 21st century. Growing at breakneck speed for more than thirty years, it has lifted hundreds of million of people out of poverty, created a huge middle class, morphed from a sweatshop into a high-tech economy, and gave birth to several new industries along the way. But all these accomplishments have come at a price, and China’s future looks ever more daunting.
This course discusses social organisation and economic development in present-day China and exposes students to the contrasting socio-political, cultural and economic contexts of a modern Asian state with a thriving market economy. It provides a broad sweep of the historical context of social change and seeks to equip students with a good appreciation of the history, culture, society, and economy in China. The lectures at SMU will provide students with a strong understanding of China, enabling them to benefit from and fully participate in the business meetings that will take place during the study trip.