Small groups and political rituals in China

by Martin King Whyte

Under communism, China in the past two decades has experienced profound structural and cultural change. One of the primary devices the Chinese elite have resorted to for affecting change is the institution of hsiao-tsu (small groups) and political rituals of criticism and self-criticism. In spite of their significance, hsiao-tsu and the associated political rituals have not been systematically studied. Martin Whyte's is the first systematic sociological study of this vitally important institution in contemporary China and fills severals gaps in our knowledge

271 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1974

About the author

Martin King Whyte is professor of sociology and international affairs at George Washington University.

Reviews

[Liam Conway · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly interesting study on a topic that is not focused on nearly as much as it should be. Invaluable for any research on Maoist political engineering but unfortunately limited by its methodology.