China's rapid economic growth, modernization and globalization have led to astounding social changes.  Contemporary China provides a fascinating portrayal of society and social change in the contemporary People's Republic of China. This book introduces readers to key sociological and anthropological perspectives, themes and debates about Chinese society. It explores topics such as family life, citizenship, gender and sexuality, ethnicity, labour, religion, education, class and rural-urban inequalities, youth identities and collective action for social change. It considers China's imperial past, the social and institutional legacies of the Maoist era, and the momentous forces shaping it in the present.

Written by experts in the field, and including full-colour maps and photographs, this book offers remarkable insight into Chinese society and social change. It is an excellent resource for university students of Chinese society.