In the decade (1992–2001), the Chinese architecture profession, (hereinafter using abbreviation the CAP) has been largely promoted to a higher level under the socialist circumstance. It is pivotal to note that the evolution of the architecture and the profession does not occur as a natural process, but rather as a result of power relations. In effect, the transformation in the architectural field is a result of interplay between many agents, with the state authority sitting as a predominant force amongst many components despite the complexity and complicity. / On the one hand, the CAP has experienced independence, self-improvement and integration into the world through the journey towards a liberalized position. On the other hand, the operation of architectural practice is highly channeled by the state authority, is closely tied to government policies and shaped by government regulations and facilitated by socio-economic dynamics. The state authority, at various levels, affects the direction of the CAP’s development as well as how it is evolving. This is implemented through interrelations not static but dynamic, that are constantly being re-enacted. / In the midst of the range of architectural phenomenon, the thesis focuses on changes of the CAP, and the relationship between the CAP and the state authority in China during a crucial decade of post–Mao reform, as reflected in the publications in Jian Zhu Xue Bao. It is based on a textual analysis of Jian Zhu Xue Bao, and observes the interrelations that occurred or re-occurred through historical review, discourse analysis and case studies. At the conceptual level, the study considers the interaction as that of power and knowledge. / Against the background provided, the dissertation argues that the underlying power–knowledge correlations react in the Chinese architectural field and at the same time; various interactions that drive the development related to the CAP are unfolding in Chinese architectural discourse. Drawing on scholarship concerning power and knowledge, findings are of four kinds related to: (1) the CAP obtained a relative autonomy; (2) the improvement of professional systems and enforcement; (3) the facilitation role of the state authority; (4) integration into international practice and discourse.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/284278 |
| Date | January 2009 |
| Creators | Zhang, Yanjing |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Rights | Restricted Access: Abstract and Citation Only Available |
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