This subject is designed to acquaint the students with the features and organization of family and kinship in traditional and contemporary Chinese societies.  Special attention will be given to such issues as the composition and functions of the family, structure of kin relationships, norms and behaviors concerning support to kinsmen, loyalty and dependence of the individual in relation to his or her family and the wider kin groups, and gender dynamics within the family.  This course will examine the impacts of socioeconomic developments and state policies on family structures and gender roles, the progress and barriers to gender equality within the family and society, as well as how family background creates or mitigates inequalities by influencing access to resources, care and support, and opportunities for social mobility.