An inquiry into the disposition of Chinese agriculture

Purpose - To obtain an understanding of the disposition of Chinese agriculture. Design/methodology/approach - By applying econometric methods to make a narrow assessment on several productive factors in Chinese agriculture covering most of the era of Reforms and openness, a picture portraying the traits of Chinese rural society is provided. The author delves deep into the foundations of econometric as well as western society to draw comparisons between Occidental and oriental society. Findings - Unlike the widely held view that implicitly identifies the basis of studies in Chinese economical development with that in western nations, the presented idea illuminates the intrinsic “upper‐hand” disposition of Chinese rural society, which has so far practically made China tread a path different from that in western society. Research limitations/implications - Since the paper deals with the whole picture of Chinese agriculture, it presumably may cause partial loss of accuracy in econometric calculations. Practical implications - It provides a fresh yet in‐depth idea for western researchers. Originality/value - The paper breaks fresh ground in Chinese study and economic theory for researchers who are confused with the intricacy of the Chinese agricultural economy.