The evolution of “Acquaintance Society” in urban China

Abstract

The “Acquaintance Society” is a foundational concept and paradigm in the study of rural China. In contrast, urban Chinese society is often characterized as a “Stranger Society”. However, using the concept of “Stranger society” to describe contemporary urban China is somewhat inappropriate, at least not supported by statistical data. In fact, “Acquaintance Society” was present in urban China historically but underwent a period of eclipse, leading to a general sense of substitution by “Stranger Society”. Nowadays, “Slight Acquaintance Society” within urban contexts is gradually back and reconstructed. “Slight Acquaintance Society” does not blur personal boundaries or intrude into private domains, but in certain situations and specific events, may activate individuals into group actions, presenting as positive elements in grassroots governance participation by the public.