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The Application of Human Capital Theory and Educational Signalling Theory to Explain Parental Influences on the Chinese Population’s Social Mobility Opportunities

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  • Jason Hung

    (Department of Sociology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1SB, UK)

  • Mark Ramsden

    (Department of Sociology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1SB, UK)

Abstract

Existing studies argue life chances are, in part, vertically reproduced. Such a statement is applicable to the Chinese contexts as, but not limited to, parental hukou status, to some extent, determines the life chances their children receive. In this essay, the author would like to introduce human capital theory (HCT) and educational signalling theory (EST), and assess how the applications of each of these two models can enrich the understanding of vertical reproduction of individuals’ social mobility opportunities. The author would also present the limitations of each of these two models when addressing relevant Chinese contexts.

Suggested Citation

  • Jason Hung & Mark Ramsden, 2021. "The Application of Human Capital Theory and Educational Signalling Theory to Explain Parental Influences on the Chinese Population’s Social Mobility Opportunities," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 10(10), pages 1-7, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:10:y:2021:i:10:p:362-:d:645168
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    References listed on IDEAS

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