
Very few people in the West know much about China. What they think they know is largely based on outdated stereotypes from the mind-twentieth century or earlier. Yet, as China emerges once again as a world super-power and influences lives around the globe, it is important to understand this most ancient and largest of all civilizations. This book is based on seventeen visits to China since 1997 by Alan Macfarlane and his wife Sarah Harrison, travelling and filming through many remote regions and the great emerging cities. It is also informed by teaching in numerous Chinese universities and many friendships with Chinese students and colleagues.