28 Stratification of Late Imperial Society: Social Hierarchy

This lecture delves into the intricate social hierarchy of traditional Chinese society. It examines wealth as a means to prestige and education, with land being the most esteemed form of property. Participation in the Li, encompassing leisure and social role performance, is a crucial aspect of status. Additionally, age or generation plays a significant role, with older individuals often held in higher regard. Across these criteria, from wealth to age, Chinese society maintains a remarkable consistency in determining social ranking.