Journal of East China Normal University (Philosoph ›› 2014, Vol. 46 ›› Issue (5): 108-122.

• 社会学研究 • Previous Articles     Next Articles

The Contemporary Transformation regarding the Theories of Social Construction in China

ZHENG Xiong-fei   

  • Online:2014-09-15 Published:2014-10-02
  • About author:ZHENG Xiong-fei

Abstract: As “an objective existing historical process”, or as “a thinking mode and conceptual innovation”, social construction has always existed along with social development of past ages. In this new century, the connotation of social construction has surpassed the set pattern that “social construction is equivalent to the construction of various social undertakings” and has penetrated into the resources allocation and the improvement of people’s livelihood. Meanwhile, its denotation can no longer be generalized as “a generic name of all kinds of constructions aiming at social survival and development”, but extends gradually to benefits allocation and pattern optimization. Social construction does not subordinate itself to political or economic field but return to sociality. It emphasizes the role of the “society” rather than “supplements the deficiency of the governmental facilities”. Its purpose is not only to solve social problems or to establish “a rich and happy society”, but also to improve people’s livelihood and beneficial relationships. Its methods are no longer limited to democratic politics, culture, psychology or education, but concentrated on the innovation of social administration mechanism and the optimization of social development path. This historical transformation has its own momentum, layers and correlations. However, it is not perfect and needs further improvement in research direction and key points.