CHAPTER VI: URBAN–RURAL STRUCTURE

China’s current urban–rural structure is a dual social status system or structure, which was produced in the process of social transformation. It is currently the social structure that needs to be adjusted the most. This structure was constructed in the 1950s. With the implementation of the contract responsibility system and the disintegration of the commune system in rural areas, farmers gained the freedom to select their own jobs and operate their own businesses. The urban–rural structure has undergone significant changes, making the difficult transition from absolute seclusion to gradually opening up. However, urban–rural restructuring is not synchronized. There is a lack of coordination among industrialization, conversion and urbanization, which has seriously delayed the rational and effective adjustment of the urban–rural structure. The urban–rural pattern of interests is more inclined toward cities, and the urban–rural gap is continually widening. It is increasingly difficult to coordinate urban and rural economies and societies. Thus, in order to build a harmonious society, the adjustment of the urban–rural structure is urgently needed.