Abstract
This chapter explores the role of education processes in the construction of youth collective identities in 21st-century mainland China. Drawing on the results of a growing body of anthropological work and on data from two field studies among Han (Chinese) high school students conducted over the past decade or so, the discussion highlights the key role of ethnographic research in uncovering contemporary tensions within China's educational agendas, and the conflicting forces shaping youth nationalism and global outlook. In particular, the chapter underscores the intersection between Chinese youth social positioning and perceived life chances, their attitudes toward official narratives of the “nation,” and their readiness to align themselves with the national collectivity.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Anthropology of Ascendant China |
| Subtitle of host publication | Histories, Attainments, and Tribulations |
| Publisher | Taylor and Francis |
| Pages | 208-226 |
| Number of pages | 19 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781040011591 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781032416113 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 1 Jan 2024 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2024 selection and editorial matter, Mayfair Yang; individual chapters, the contributors.