Unlike many studies of social attitudes, which are based on large scale quantitative surveys, or which focus on the attitude of elites, this book considers the views of ordinary people, and is based on in-depth, qualitative interviews. This approach results in rich, nuanced data, and is especially helpful for highlighting ambivalent attitudes, where respondents may hold positive and negative views on a particular topic, views which are liable to change. The book examines attitudes on a range of subjects of current importance, including views on nationalism and internationalism, housing preferences, and educational ambitions. Throughout, the book explores how far attitudes are influenced by traditional Chinese values or by the neo-liberal outlook fostered by recent reforms, and concludes that materialism and individualism have increased.

Yu Chen completed her doctorate at the University of Bristol, UK

Wei Fang completed her doctorate at the University of Bristol, UK

Liqing Li completed her doctorate at the University of Bristol, UK

Paul Morrissey completed his doctorate at the University of Bristol, UK

Chen Nie completed his doctorate at the University of Bristol, UK

1. Introduction 2. Nationalism and Internationalism 3. How Urban Dwellers View Rural Dwellers, and Vice-Versa 4. The Quest for Higher Education 5. Housing Preferences for Urban Populations 6. Summary and Conclusion