State or Merchant

Delve into the complexities of economic and political thought in Helen Dunstan's enlightening book, State or Merchant, published by Harvard University Press in 2006. This compelling intellectual history focuses on Confucian governance during the Qing dynasty, providing a nuanced exploration of public policy beyond the expected confines of Confucian philosophy.

Spanning 523 pages, Dunstan illustrates how various members of the Confucian administration navigated divergent objectives in response to the pivotal question of “state or merchant?” This examination sheds light on the dynamic interplay between state power and commercial interests in China from 1644 to 1912, making it essential reading for enthusiasts of history and economic policy.

Join the scholarly discussion of economic conditions and governance in a critical period of China's history, and gain insights into the evolving relationship between state authority and merchant activity. Perfect for students, historians, and anyone interested in the impactful intersection of economics and politics.