This collection of essays explores the variety of middle-class formations in contemporary China. The essays focus on social situations and behaviors, with an emphasis on dynamic elements rather than reductive identities. They examine the sociopolitical ramifications of these middle classes and how they vary depending on industry and other factors of social position, like gender or professional status. They consider the conservative attitudes among the middle-classes, which are favorable to the strong state and less concerned with inequality than more marginal groups. They also look at consumer culture, ownership society ideals, the institutional determinants of the political consciousness of private entrepreneurs, and more. The contributors are mostly Australian professors of sociology, China studies, and business. Annotation ⓒ2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)