The Transformation of Social Class Determinants for Environmental Willingness to Pay: Evidence from China (2010 & 2021)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jmsd.202512515

Author(s)

Kaichun Lei1, Xiaonan Wang2,*

Affiliation(s)

1Institute of Sociology, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, Shanghai, China 2School of Public Administration, Shanghai Open University, Shanghai, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

This study uses data from the 2010 and 2021 China General Social Survey (CGSS) to examine the impact and changes of different social class factors (traditional, local, and subjective) on the willingness of Chinese residents to pay for environmental protection. The results show that, compared to 2010, Chinese residents' willingness to pay for environmental protection in 2021 is higher. In 2010, individuals in higher occupational classes, those with a political affiliation, and those with a stronger future class identity had a higher willingness to pay for environmental protection, while individuals in the middle-income group had a relatively lower willingness. However, in 2021, only individuals with a political affiliation, and those with a stronger childhood and future class identity, had significantly higher willingness to pay for environmental protection. The study suggests that, while overall willingness to pay for environmental protection has increased, the influence of traditional social class factors has weakened. Meanwhile, the influence of local class factors, such as political affiliation, and subjective class factors, such as childhood and future class identity, has become stronger.

Keywords

Social Class; Subjective Class; Native Stratification; Willingness to Pay for Environmental Protection; Objective Class

References

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