The Same Work but Different Effects: Local Network Structures and Elite Actions

• In Event: 4407 - Social Capital: Tie Mobilization

Abstract

Previous studies regard elites as the foundation for collective actions, believing that elite mobilization results in the success of self-organization. This paper corrects the view of such. Using qualitative data collected in Pingnan County, Fujian Province in 2014-2016 and 2018, the paper analyzes the process of elite actions and the difference in effects. The paper finds that local elites channels external resources and integrate internal ones to operate self-organization. Although self-organization is formed through elite actions, its effects are heterogeneous in different network structures. In a highly unified lineage network, self-organization works well, while in the competing network structure where there is a profit-sharing order, elites encounter a crisis of trust. Hence, self-organization dysfunction.

Authors

• Shichao Du, University at Albany, SUNY

• Felicia F. Tian, Fudan University