Modern China

Most writing on modern China dwells on those aspects which are new to China since the Communist takeover, stressing above all politics, Marxism, economic and agricultural development. First published in 1985, Modern China argues that all this writing creates a false impression of what present-day China is really like.
This book contends that much of traditional China remains, particularly at the grass-roots level and that Buddhism and the Buddhist tradition continue to exert an influence. Politics in communist China is best understood in the context of this tradition. Throughout arguments are supported by revealing how tradition continues in the economy, in society and the family; by examining in detail the Buddhist tradition; and by using the case study of education to show the interplay between modern and customary forces.

List of contents

Part One: Introduction 1. The Unknown Land 2. The Face of China Part Two: History, Society and Economy 3. China's Historical Integrity 4. The Traditional Economy 5. The Good Earth 6. Society 7. The Family Part Three: Buddhism and the Communist Political Order 8. Buddhism and Popular Culture 9. Buddhism as Heresy 10. Buddhism as a Philosophy of Life Part Four: Ritual and Rational uses of Education 11. Education and Modernization 12. Education and Manpower before the Cultural Revolution 13. The Cultural Revolution and its Aftermath 14. Education and Society

About the author

I. W. Mabbett is a historian and educator. His research interests include ancient Indian history, Buddhist philosophy and history, and the comparative study of Asian religions.

Product details

• Authors: I. W. Mabbett, Mabbett I. W.
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Release: 19.01.2026
• EAN: 9781032936581
• ISBN: 978-1-0-3293658-1
• No. of pages: 242
• Series: Routledge Revivals
• Subjects: Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Geosciences > Geography; Social sciences, law, business > Social sciences (general); Asia, HISTORY / Social History, Social & cultural history, HISTORY / Asia / China, Regional Studies, Social and cultural history, Regional / International studies, Asian History, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Cultural & Ethnic Studies / Asian Studies