A Glance on Rural–Urban Migration

Abstract

Classic migration theories have large influence on understanding rural–urban migration in China. In this chapter, firstly, four migration theories are reviewed in detail including Ravenstein’s laws of migration, Lee’s general theory of migration, Zelinsky’s stage theory, and Mabogunje’s systems approach to rural–urban migration. Secondly, this chapter gives a brief portrait of Chinese farmers’ rural–urban migration. First, who migrates? Focusing on the demographic characteristics of migrant workers, such as educational level, gender, and age. Second, why do people migrate from rural areas to urban centers? Third, what are the working and living conditions at migrant workers’ destinations? These conditions include occupation, accommodation, and social contact. Fourth, what are the social securities of migrant workers in cities? Lastly, what are the consequences of migration? Looking at impacts on receiving areas, impacts on sending areas, and impacts on the families of migrant workers (i.e., left-behind groups).