ISSN:
0305-7410
Source:
Cambridge Journals Digital Archives
Topics:
Linguistics and Literary Studies
,
History
,
Political Science
,
Sociology
,
Economics
Notes:
From an economic point of view, a ration coupon can serve at least three purposes: it can control the movement of people from one place to another, thereby easing employment, housing and transportation problems; it can distribute basic necessities, such as foodstuffs, more evenly in times of scarcity; and it can shift purchasing power away from certain goods, thus helping to maintain stable prices on these goods during periods of inflationary pressure. However, while each of these goals can be analysed in a narrowly economic framework, it is important to consider their political consequences as well. Inflation, for example, may cause political discontent even before it brings about economic dislocation. Any consideration of Peking's rationing policies, therefore, must touch on both the economic and non-economic aspects of the problem.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0305741000013163
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