Understanding rural gentrification in China: Examining the evolving concept and comparative insights

Abstract

Research into rural gentrification has evolved from the foundations of urban gentrification studies, progressively establishing its distinct characteristics. The conflation of urban and rural gentrification demarcations impedes theoretical progress, necessitating an in-depth examination of the intricacies unique to rural areas. China's swift urbanization mirrors rural changes in certain locales, signaling the imperative for a cogent framework to dissect these phenomena and inform rural development strategies. Rural gentrification, inherently context-sensitive, cannot be adequately understood through a mere transposition of Anglo-American theories. Rigorous, contextually tailored research within China is essential to uphold scholarly integrity. Although China's rural gentrification is going to flourish, there is limited focus on the multifaceted role of the state in rural gentrification. This article seeks to extend the conceptual framework of rural gentrification and examine its distinct progression in China. It rigorously contrasts the characteristics of China's rural gentrification with the established Anglo-American paradigm, highlighting the unique role of the state in this process. The study culminates in a critical evaluation of the gaps in China's experience of rural gentrification. It advocates for the empowerment of local communities to engage in gentrification initiatives and calls for nuanced analysis of the power structures and conflicts inherent in such transformations.