ISBN:
9781369409604
Language:
English
Pages:
1 Online-Ressource (1 electronic resource (342 pages))
Series Statement:
Dissertations Abstracts International
Dissertation note:
Ph.D. The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong) 2015.
Keywords:
Cultural anthropology
;
Geography
;
Urban planning
Abstract:
Chinese cities have experienced groundbreaking socio-spatial transformations. Old urban neighbourhoods have been particularly subject to large-scale demolition and human resettlement. In recent years, however, in an attempt to counter the adverse socio-environmental consequences of previous forms of urbanisation, China has increasingly focused on "humanising" urban development, making it more people-centred, moving away from demolition and arbitrary relocation, and paying more attention to preservation and "culture". This study explores how this shift manifests itself at the micro-level of urban society in the concrete case of inner city redevelopment in the coastal city of Qingdao. Old Qingdao is home to diverse colonial architecture but is in a state of serious disrepair, overcrowded, and offering poor living conditions. Under the umbrella of "old housing renovation" ([special characters omitted]) and "preservation-oriented development" ([special characters omitted]), the city government has been trying to upgrade and gentrify the area through spatial reconfiguration and human resettlement. The project follows China's new urbanisation outlook, emphasising fair compensation and heritage preservation. The endeavour has, however, been largely unsuccessful and the project continues to stagnate. This study analyses what lies behind this developmental deadlock and offers in-depth ethnography of how residents, officials, urban developers, and heritage enthusiasts entertain contested views regarding the "correct" meaning, usage, and appearance of the inner city. I show how centrally propagated agendas, local government practices, and people's reactions to and expectations towards the government are largely at odds with each other. The government's inability to handle the resultant conflict reflects some very fundamental issues in China's current attempt to change its urban development and governing practices. This research points to the paradox that the growing focus on "culturally sensitive" and more "humane" urban development, as well as peoples' increased ability to participate in and influence urban planning are some of the key reasons for the current stagnation of urban redevelopment and have ironically ended up antagonising most people involved. On a more fundamental level, this paradox also reflects the challenges that China's authoritarian regime is facing in having to and trying to foster socio-political change, but without compromising or losing its legitimacy and power.
Note:
Source: Dissertations Abstracts International, Volume: 78-06, Section: A. - Publisher info.: Dissertation/Thesis. - Advisors: Bosco, Joseph Committee members: Sidney Cheung; Lisa Hoffman; Teresa Kuan
,
English
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