Rise of a new elite in rural China and its characteristics

Abstract

As it became clear in China that economic reforms were there to stay, more people became involved in commercial activities, including many local cadres, as they realized how they could profit in private business. Rural elites are emerging not only in the economic field but also in the cultural and social fields. The relations of the new elites with local authorities vary from province to province. The new elites may differ from the state in their interests, but may cooperate closely for the time being, although as they mature they will become more independent and harder to control politically. And once a large political crisis occurs they will replace party organizations and assume local leadership.