Merchant and Modern Chinese Society

Author: Tang Lixing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: Since ancient times, merchants have been degraded as the "four lowest classes of society"; even in the emotional world, merchants have become the fixed role of "prioritizing profit over parting." In reality, the merchant class was the most advanced social force in Chinese society after the 16th century. Their business activities shook the foundations of traditional society and propelled its slow transformation. The activities of merchants extended to every corner of society, and this book examines the unique functions of merchants in the context of modern transformation from the broad perspective of their interaction with modern society. The author elaborates and analyzes in detail from various aspects, including the formation of the modern merchant class, the geographical distribution of merchants, their distinctive business operations and methods, the social life and mentality of merchants, merchants and urban culture, the changes in urban socio-economics, and the transformation of modern merchants themselves. It points out that under China's unique social structure, merchants have always been in a dilemma and have yet to break free from the traps of modern society. The research is highly commendable and innovative, serving as a clear mirror for today's economic reforms and even social reforms.