China's fifty-five officially recognised ethnic minorities form about 8% of the Chinese population, with over 100 million people, and occupy over 60% of China's territory. They are very diverse, and the degree of modernisation among them varies greatly. This book examines the current state of China's ethnic minorities at a time when ethnic affairs and globalisation are key forces affecting the contemporary world. It considers the fields of policy, economy, society and international relations, including the impact of globalisation and outside influences.
1. Introduction 2. Historical Background, 1949-89 3. Minorities Politics, 1989-2002 4. The Economies of the Minorities 5. The Realm of the Mind, Religion and Education 6. Population, Women and Family 7. International Relations 8. Conclusion
Biography
Colin Mackerras is Foundation Professor in the School of International Business and Asian Studies, Griffith University, Australia. A leading China specialist, his research work focuses on two main areas: China's ethnic minorities, and its regional theatre, especially Peking Opera.
Review in China Perspectives, Number 53, May - June 2004
'Mackerras presents a strong case for a positive outcome of the interaction between the Chinese state and minority cultures in the era of globalization.' - The Royal Society for Asian Studies
