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Whither guanxi and social networks in China? A review of theory and practice

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  • Jane Nolan
  • Chris Rowley

Abstract

The analysis of guanxi and social networks is well-established but heated debates continue on its utility in Chinese business and management. Many argue that it offers an emotionally sensitive, network-based form of resource allocation, uniquely fitted to China’s distinctive national culture. Others assert that it impedes open-market competition and merit-based reward, factors assumed to be essential for the optimal functioning of capitalist economies. Our collection of research offers new empirical insights and nuanced conceptual development on these debates, demonstrating the continuing relevance of guanxi in the 21st century. This is achieved through examining multinational enterprise corporate performance, governance structures in Chinese private firms, organizational justice in Chinese banks, entrepreneurial learning and knowledge acquisition and the gendered nature of guanxi in the workplace. Important theoretical and practical implications from these studies are highlighted, as well as the key implications for future research. The collection is dedicated to the memory of our dear friend, mentor and colleague, Professor Malcolm Warner, who passed away during its development.

Suggested Citation

  • Jane Nolan & Chris Rowley, 2020. "Whither guanxi and social networks in China? A review of theory and practice," Asia Pacific Business Review, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 26(2), pages 113-123, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:taf:apbizr:v:26:y:2020:i:2:p:113-123
    DOI: 10.1080/13602381.2020.1737391
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    Cited by:

    1. Mustafa F. Özbilgin & Cihat Erbil & Nur Gündoğdu, 2024. "Political tie diversity and inclusion at work in Asia: a critical view and a roadmap," Asian Business & Management, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 23(3), pages 374-392, July.
    2. Le Tang & Rentao Miao & Lai Jiang, 2020. "Employee Political Skill, Supervisor-Subordinate Guanxi, and Work-Family Conflict: The Cross-Level Moderating Role of Family-Friendly Practices," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-21, July.
    3. Rob Kim Marjerison & Jong Min Kim, 2022. "MSE Response during Times of Crisis: The Roles of Budgeting Micro Functions and Guanxi," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(17), pages 1-19, September.
    4. Niu, Ruiyang & Chen, Lin & Jin, Liang & Xie, Guanghua & Zhao, Longfeng, 2024. "Does managerial bank relationship network matter corporate resilience? Evidence from the COVID-19 crisis," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 89(PA), pages 855-877.
    5. repec:aly:journl:202305 is not listed on IDEAS

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