China Transformed

The assumption still made in much social science research that europe provides a universal model of development is fundamentally mistaken, according to r. bin wong. the solution is not, however, simply to reject eurocentric norms but to build complementary perspectives, such as a sinocentric one, to evaluate current understandings of european developments. a genuinely comparative perspective, he argues, will free china from wrong expectations and will allow those working on european problems to recognize the distinct character of western development. review "this new work by r. bin wong is much more than just another important historical monograph on china.... it is nothing less than a bold and inspiring manifesto which spells out plainly for us why conducting broad comparisons with different historical arcs traced in other parts of the world can be so essential to our writing better histories of china.... engaging and accessible." ―journal of asian studies"this masterful study... is much needed and deserves a wide audience. as wong says himself, his intention is to 'persuade people to ponder these problems and formulate additional solutions.he has performed an admirable task." -michael tsin ―international labor and working class history"wong is very eloquent indeed.... it is impossible to summarize all the book's riches or insights.... the book is enormously praiseworthy for its ambition, erudition, and resourcefulness." ―american historical review"a surprisingly easy read with contents well laid-out and cases well presented.... wong's work serves as a good reference." ―journal of economic history"an extraordinary thematic discourse on the similarities and differences of chinese and european developments." ―choice"never before has a china historian produced a book of such vast scope that carefully and deliberately brings china and europe into a single framework of analysis, one that evenhandedly addresses both ends of eurasia with no prior assumptions about the universality of european themes.... this is an inquiring, thoughtful, large-spirited, and sharply thought-provoking work.... china scholars, from apprentices deciding on dissertation topics to experienced researchers thinking about their next project, will find gold in these pages and a friendly guide to ore.... one could not wish for a more stimulating read." ―china review international r. bin wong is professor of history and director of the ucla asia institute. he is coauthor of nourish the people: state civilian granaries in china, 1650-1850 and of societies and cultures in world history.