Characteristics of Farmers

Farmers have a strong orientation toward private relationships, which means that when they encounter difficulties, they first try to handle them behind closed doors on their own. If that fails, they turn to their network of relatives and friends. The same logic applies to seeking benefits: opportunities are kept within the family and close circle. When it comes to public affairs, they often display a “mind one’s own business” attitude, lacking long-term perspective and the ability to unite for common interests. Even when benefits are secured, there is little tendency toward impartiality.

Those who can become village cadres should possess certain characteristics. First, they should have support from a prominent clan; members of small or inconsequential families find it hard to胜任. Second, they should have relatives within the higher-level government. Finally, they must be individuals of both virtue and ability, capable and fair in their dealings.

However, driven by the market economy, people are pulled out of their original communities and localities, becoming economic actors pursuing their own interests. While the market economy grants opportunities to everyone, it also imposes “insecurity” (risk) on all. Farmers, in particular, are marginalized by the broader social market.

Zhou Shilin | Farmers: Far More Complex Than You Think!