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This paper examines the development of philanthropy and civil society in China over the past 40 years of reform and opening-up. The study identifies a process in which China's philanthropy has transitioned from being embedded within the planned economy, to being re-embedded under government regulation, and later integrated into governance frameworks. While the idea of civil society has sparked considerable discussion within philanthropy in China, and faced skepticism and restrictions, civic philanthropy driven by civil society—characterized by voluntarism, equality, and public interest—has played a significant role in social transformation. Currently, challenges such as limited growth space and resource stagnation affect China's civil philanthropy. However, new growth opportunities are emerging through internet-based self-organization of young volunteers, online charity, the development of enterprise-led foundations, diversified community welfare networks, regional public welfare ecosystems, and citizen-based religious charity. Overall, China's civil society follows a unique development path, distinct from Western models, reflecting “the modernity of the Other”, emphasizing cooperation with the state, and playing a crucial role in cultivating modern citizens and alleviating social contradictions.
Zhu et al. (Tue,) studied this question.