Cognitive structure of state–individual relations and group differentiation: a sociological analysis of Chinese respondents

This sociological study aims to identify how cognitive types of perceiving state–individual relations take shape in contemporary Chinese society, and what socio-demo graphic and value characteristics are associated with their bearers. The empirical base consists of data from the author’s survey of 435 respondents from China. K-means cluster analysis was used to process 13 pairs of opposing statements about the rights and duties of the state and the individual. This made it possible to describe four ideal types of cognitive structures: “state-oriented” (19.1 %), “individual-oriented” (12.9 %), “contractual-consensual” (45.7 %), and “ambivalent-waiting” (22.3 %). Bearers of these types differ significantly by age and education level, as well as by indicators of social trust and traditional collectivism. The results may be useful in analyzing social integration, the evolution of civ ic consciousness, and the improvement of social governance. The “contractual- consensual” type deserves special attention: in it, patriotism combines with a priority on personal autonomy, and it is most often found among young people with high levels of education. This provides grounds to speak of the formation of value foundations consonant with contemporary governance practices. A limitation of the study is the sample’s bias toward young people and those with higher education; therefore, caution is needed when extrapolating to China’s general population.