Markets, modernization, and individualism in three Chinese societies

This dissertation investigates the impact of modernization in three Chinese societies: Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou, PRC to determine if individualism is intrinsic to modernization, and if so, what form it takes in different cultures. The existence of modem Chinese societies offers a new look at the modernization process.; First, I investigate the theories concerning individualism's role in Western modernization in order to draw out conclusions which may apply to the Chinese case. Next, I address the literature on the Chinese family business since scholars argue that Chinese capitalism essentially remains traditionally collective in nature. I argue that this literature narrowly defines both the economic structures and the components of Chinese culture itself, leaving little room for change. A broader concept of the values and meanings contained in Chinese culture provides a more complete backdrop by which to analyze social change.; The study applies these concepts when conducting an ethographic study of the three societies. Through in-depth interviews about business practices and lifestyles, I analyze the impact modernization has had on economic and social action. I argue that modernization does possess an individuating effect and brings forward already existent individualistic tendencies in these three societies. Findings demonstrate clear trends in these societies that more advanced economic activity, increased competition, as well as the inclusion of entrepreneurs outside the traditional networks, such as women, forces a loosening of traditional social relationships or guanxi and the creation of new, more economically rational relationships. This also reflects itself in a greater desire for self-expression and the increased use of religion as a method by which to buttress individual action. For women, modernization increases the conflict between work and family. In Guangzhou, two different patterns of capitalist development emerge in correlation with the individual's integration with the state. Finally, I argue that all three societies are experiencing a surge in regional identity which may provide a new matrix as the values of Chinese societies reshuffle in importance. These individualistic responses to modernization are defined by the culture in which they exist.