The course is structured not as an historical chronology but rather as a thematic discussion of some of the major issues in contemporary China. We will explore the basic institutional make-up of Chinese society, the structural changes brought forth in the reform era, and the impacts on the daily existence of the people therein. It is expected that after taking the course, students would not just know, but could also make sense of, what is going on in Chinese society today.

CILO-1: Describe the basic institutional make-up of contemporary Chinese society, and how these institutions configure the social life in contemporary China. CILO-2: Examine the structural changes brought forth in the reform era and the impacts of economic reform on China’s social structure/institutions, as well as individual and social life. CILO-3: Evaluate the changing relation between the state and the society in contemporary China before and after economic reforms. CILO-4: Apply this knowledge in analyzing contemporary Chinese issues and government policies. CILO-5: Discuss specific issues of contemporary Chinese society in a well-organized and well-informed manner.