2008-07-21-皮尤-The_Chinese_Celebrate_Their_Roaring_Economy,_As_They_Struggle_With_Its_Costs_50页_529kb

2008 Pew Global Attitudes Survey in China

Overview: The Chinese Celebrate Their Roaring Economy, As They Struggle With Its Costs

Key Findings Summary

1. Economic Optimism:

   • 86% Chinese were satisfied with China's direction and 82% with its economy in 2008, the highest global rankings among 24 surveyed countries.
   • This represents a dramatic improvement from 2002, when satisfaction levels were significantly lower (48% and 52%, respectively).
   • However, individual satisfaction with job satisfaction (64%) and income (58%) was modest compared to national metrics.

2. Healthcare, Savings Concerns:

   • 48% found healthcare affordability difficult.
   • 34% found retirement savings challenging.
   • 28% struggled with educational expenses.

3. Social and Environmental Tensions:

   • 78% identified corruption as a major problem.
   • About 74% cited air pollution and 66% water pollution as significant issues.
   • The rich/poor gap was seen as a very big problem by 41%.

4. Olympic Enthusiasm:

   • 96% expected China to successfully host the Olympics.
   • 79% believed the Games would improve China's global image.
   • However, 34% felt the country overemphasized the Olympics.

5. Government Support:

   • 65% rated the government positively on key issues.
   • Support was higher (72-75%) among higher-income groups and in eastern regions.

6. Changing Values and Modern Life:

   • 71% expressed liking modern life's pace.
   • However, 59% believed traditional ways were disappearing.
   • Support for free market economy (70%) and environmental protection (80%) was universal.

7. Demographic Differences:

   • Highly educated, wealthy, young urbanites generally expressed greater satisfaction with economic liberalization and modern progress.
   • Rural populations and older citizens showed stronger attachment to tradition, but slightly greater trust in free markets.

Conclusion

The survey captures a pivotal moment in China's development, highlighting extraordinary national pride and economic confidence, while revealing deep societal concerns about economic expansion's costs. The duality of celebrating growth while questioning its consequences reflects China's complex transitional period across various social strata.