Why people recommend it
Invisible China by Scott Rozelle and Natalie Hell is a sociological and economic examination of China's human capital crisis and the stark divide between its urban and rural populations. During an episode of The Ezra Klein Show in June 2023 titled What’s Really Going On in Russia?, Stephen Kotkin recommended the volume during a discussion about understanding the complexities of the nation. Kotkin told listeners that out of all the available books concerning the country, this was the one from which the audience would learn the most. He emphasized the profound value of the text for anyone seeking a deeper, data-driven comprehension of the socioeconomic challenges facing the region, particularly regarding education, health, and rural development. By framing the publication as an essential educational resource, Kotkin directed attention toward the overlooked populations outside the booming coastal mega-cities. The recommendation underscored the importance of looking beyond superficial geopolitical narratives and examining the foundational domestic hurdles that could impact future global stability. Listeners were encouraged to engage with the authors' rigorous research and empirical findings to gain a more realistic and grounded perspective on the internal dynamics shaping modern Chinese society and its long-term economic trajectory.
Who recommended it
- Stephen Kotkin Recommended
Stephen Kotkin — 1 mention
“so I'll do Scott Roselle invisible China I think that's the China book that your listeners would learn the most from of all the China books”