Whither Taiwan and Mainland China: National Identity, the State and Intellectuals

Zhidong Hao

jan. 2010 · Hong Kong University Press

Om denne e-bog

This is one of the few books that argues for a feasible compromise solution to the political conflict across the Taiwan Strait that still troubles greater China. The author elaborates on the factors both enabling and constraining the formation of a hybrid of federation and confederation. In a unique way he deals with the role of the state and intellectuals (organic, professional, and critical) as well as their interaction in shaping national identities. The important questions raised are: Can China become a true world leader? Will Taiwan be a key player in China's transformation? The book should be of interest to students in political science, sociology, and history, as well as policy-makers and businesspeople who are concerned about the development of cross-Strait relations.

Om forfatteren

Zhidong Hao is an associate professor in the Department of Sociology, the University of Macau. He has a Ph.D. degree in sociology from the City University of New York and has taught at both Chinese and American universities. His research interests include intellectuals, nationalism across the Taiwan Strait, rural development in China, corporate social responsibility, and Macao history, culture, and society. Among his publications are Xijiao Village: The Historical Transformation of a Rural Community in Northern China (co-authored in Chinese, 2009); Toward Democratization and Harmony: Difficulties in Social Progress in Macao, Taiwan, and Mainland China (in Chinese, 2008); Intellectuals at a Crossroads: The Changing Politics of Chirms Knowledge Workers (in English, 2003); National Identity and the Future of Cross Strait Relations (edited in Chinese, 2008); and A Comparative Study of Village and Township Governance across the Taiwan Strait (co-edited in Chinese, 2008). His academic articles have appeared in journals such as Pacific Affairs, Issues and Studies, Journal of Contemporary China, and China Perspectives.