This book offers a balanced assessment of the dynamics and consequences of the decentralization of power and resources in post- Mao China. The author argues that decentralization has increased tensions amongst ethnic groups and unleashed much competition and emulation among local governments. This book is an authoritative study of an issue that will remain highly visible on China's political agenda for the forseeable future.
'An extremely revealing book, replete with statistics…of immense value to scholars of social sciences and developmental studies' - Air Marshal K D Chadha, U.S.I. Journal April-June 1999