Wellbeing and development in China

Abstract

In this paper we use the main proposals of the theories of economic and human development to consider some of the achievements of The People’s Republic of China (China). The strength of China’s economic expansion is not open to dispute, but some of its results are disturbing, regarding the economic and social wellbeing of the population. China’s experience is unique, corresponding to an ancient civilization and to a specific political system. The analysis made in this article compares approaches that could be described as analytical generalizations, but are nonetheless relevant in the context of academic discussions of government policy options and the socio-political wellbeing of the population in general.