Economy: China's large economy is offset by its population, meaning the real gross domestic per capita is still at the level of a developing country. While overall income is rising, the wealth is not equally distributed. In a state accustomed to equal wages for all, this has been a source of contention between average people. Still, successful and honest entrepreneurs are respected, even in rural areas. About 61% of the population is still employed in agriculture. The economy grew rapidly in the 1990s. To help maintain the growth, the government is investing heavily in the public infrastructure. In the early months of 2000, growth was nearly 8%.

Education: In education, 65% of children will finish elementary school. Girls are least likely to be enrolled. Only 5% of all people attend college.

Health Care: Generally, China's extensive health care network concentrates on prevention. Malaria and Cholera remain problematic. Water is not potable and open sewers are common. Traditional Chinese medicine is combined with Western medical techniques in treating illness and injury.

Serious Problems: Pollution, corruption, crime, and rising unemployment are serious problems in many parts of China.

Language: Standard Chinese (Putonghua), the national language. It is the native language of more than 70% of the population. However, people might also speak the dialects or languages of their geographical regions.

Family: In China's group-oriented society, the family is more important than the individual. Family ties survived the upheavals of the Cultural Revolution and loyalty to family is still a hallmark of Chinese society. Family-planning policies include mandatory birth control, fines for violators and other pressure tactics. The elderly are still highly respected.

General Attitudes: Chinese are noted for their hospitality and reserve. While atheism is the official party line in China, Confucianism, still influences attitudes and encourages a group consciousness, even today. This is especially true in rural areas. Guanxi, or "relationships", is the underlying principal of how the society works in practicality as friends and associates are committed to do what they can for each other when called upon. To violate guanxi is to lose face (lose reputation or honor). Children are expected to uphold the family "face".