This course examines contemporary Chinese society and social change. It has three main objectives: (1) to examine the social institutions and structures shaping everyday life, and the major sources of differentiation and inequality in Chinese society; (2) to understand contemporary Chinese society from historical perspectives, and explore the causes and consequences of social change; and (3) to examine Chinese society from a comparative perspective, and in relation to key concepts and debates in sociology and anthropology.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Draw on sociological concepts to evaluate debates about the nature of contemporary Chinese society and social change;
2. Identify the structures, institutions and processes shaping contemporary Chinese society and social change;
3. Analyse and discuss Chinese society and the major issues it faces in historical and comparative perspective;
4. Produce an argument and marshal evidence for it.

1. Tutorial participation 10% [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]

2. Tutorial presentation 10% [Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]

3. Tutorial paper 1000 15% [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]

4. Research essay 2500 words 40% [Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

5. Final Examination (2 hrs) 25% [Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]

3 hours contact (lecture/tutorial) per week. Students are expected to commit up to 7 hours on independent study per week.

Any 12 units of 1000-level courses, or permission of Convenor (permission number).

The course is aimed at students with some background in Asian studies and/or the social sciences, especially sociology, anthropology, history or politics. No prior knowledge of China is required.

Tamara Jacka, Andrew Kipnis and Sally Sargeson Contemporary China: Society and Social Change (Cambridge University Press, 2013).

A reading brick will be available.