China's rapid industrialization and urbanization over the past four decades represent epochal shifts in both the country and the global economy. The Chinese state has pursued a development strategy characterized by a distinctive model of industrialization and a unique approach to urbanization. This course examines the rationale and trajectory of China's post-1949 industrialization strategy, tracing its rise to becoming the "world's factory" and exploring the consequences of this transformation. China's industrialization is rooted in a “mega rural-urban dual system" established in the 1950s, creating “two societies” in one country and resulting in a distinctive path of urbanization with unique social and economic characteristics. The course analyzes key institutions, such as the hukou system, and their role in shaping China's development, as well as the transformation of Chinese urban society and cityscapes. Emphasis is placed on understanding the complexities of China's urbanization by examining both its social and physical landscapes, along with recent urbanization plans and policies. Throughout the course, relevant comparisons are drawn to situate China's practices within a broader historical and international context. The primary objective is to help students understand how this distinctive Chinese approach redefines cities and the lives of people within this vast nation.
This upper-division course focuses on China. Ideally, students should have some background in contemporary China (such as a course in Chinese geography, history, politics, society, or economy). Students with limited background knowledge are required to read supplementary materials (see readings under Topic 1 in Canvas) during the first two weeks of the course.