Changes in China’s Social Strata, 1978–2018

This book highlights the significant shifts in China's socioeconomic structure brought about by the country's first four decades of reform and opening-up. It address a number of contentious issues, including: Is the disparity in income growing or shrinking? Has there been a decrease in social mobility? What is the size of the middle class and middle-income group in China? With solid empirical evidence and rigorous analysis, contributors make the case that social policies that advance social justice and enhance people’s well-being are needed to adjudicate tensions among social classes and groups. It is of paramount importance for these policies to ensure that democracy and the rule of Law are upheld, the government is transparent, and the public’s voices are heard and they can fully participate in social governance.