Chinese Journal of Sociology

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A Theoretical Framework of Guanxi Dynamics

Author:Tsang, Kwok Kuen,Faculty of Education,The University of Hong Kong   

  1. Author:Tsang, Kwok Kuen,Faculty of Education,The University of Hong Kong
  • Online:2011-07-20 Published:2011-07-20
  • Contact: Author:Tsang, Kwok Kuen,Faculty of Education,The University of Hong Kong E-mail:gkk1212@hku.hk
  • About author:Author:Tsang, Kwok Kuen,Faculty of Education,The University of Hong Kong

Abstract:

Owing to its derelational, substantialist tendency, the multiperspective theory of guanxi does not effectively explain the dynamic process of guanxi which involves continuous and endless interactions between relational contexts and actors. As a result, this theory does not help us grasp or understand guanxi and its related phenomena comprehensively. The author contends that, in order to analyze guanxi and its related phenomena, it is necessary to incorporate views from relational sociology and structural theories. Accordingly, this paper has proposed a theoretical framework of guanxi dynamics. It also emphasizes the feasibility to holistically apply research methods while studying this topic.

Key words: guanxi, substantialism, relational sociology, structuration theory