Plot Summary

Examines how the privatized market economy in southeastern China has paradoxically led to the emergence of a new public spirit as peasants and merchants donate money to nongovernmental organizations. The NGOs examined here include a lineage association, a deity temple, a private school, old people's association and a Catholic church. Includes interviews with a wide range of Chinese, as well as contemporary scenes of daily life, a rural market and a factory (UC Berkeley Library).