Abstract

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Title:: Double Dilemmas and Path Dependence on Good Local Governance in Urban China

Keywords:: urban local governance; grassroots society; coordinate governance; network governance

Abstract:: In the context of rapid urbanization in China, it is essential to analyze the main logic of urban local governance, which includes the state logic and the market logic. Based on a case study, the paper argues that the strength of state logic lies in its ability to help implement state policies, but its limitation results from its possible suppression of the ingenuity and creativity of the local society. The market logic focuses on the maximization of individual interests, thus inevitably leading to the erosion of common good. From the network governance of Xianlin Community, we can see that the urban social management should be transformed from the mono-governance to the coordinate local network governance, and from rendering the community hollow to making it solid. The institutional transition will improve the performance of urban governance and enhance social harmony in China.