Seeking Channels for Engagement: Media Use and Political Communication by China's Rising Middle Class

As the main beneficiaries of the economic reforms, members of China's middle class are primarily preoccupied with maintaining their status. Participation in politics is not high on their agenda. The mass media in China has become apolitical, largely to cater to the middle class' consumer and popular culture. It is in fact weakening the political and civic interests of the middle class, reducing their motive for direct political participation or interaction with the government.