This informative book discusses the effects of the rise of Chinese capitalism on both China itself, and on its neighbours. Incorporating empirical data collated from interviews in several Asian societies and from historical Chinese sources, this renowned author analyzes, discusses and applies an institutional approach, derived from the writings of Max Weber, to explore the various aspects of Chinese economic practice. Consisting of sixteen articles which come together to provide historical, comparative and theoretically informed perspectives on the spread of Chinese capitalism, this collection emphasizes the difference between Western and Chinese forms of capitalism. Including sections on China's pre-industrial economy, as well as the growth of modern Chinese capitalism, this collection will be a valuable resource for students of Asian and Chinese studies, as well as those concerned with the economics of Chinese societies.