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The article presents information on the status of rural education in China. Zhang Yulin, Associate Professor of the Sociology Department of Nanjing University believes rural education faces three major problems--more students leaving school, default on teachers' salaries and severe lack of education funds. The dropout rate in rural junior middle schools ranges from 20 to 50 percent, indicating the education right of rural children has been severely violated. A split character of the education policy has resulted in a huge gap between rural and urban education and two different school systems that favor "key" urban schools over "ordinary" rural schools. On January 27, 2005, the Ministry of Education announced that it would fulfill the requirement of the Central Government by using most of the increased educational funds in rural education in a bid to push forward compulsory education nationwide.

The article reports on the formation and development of the new social stratum in China. According to Chen Xiqing, deputy head of the United Front Work Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the formation and development of the new social stratum is the result of the adjustment of China's basic economic system, economic structure and industrial structure along with the deepening of China's reform and opening up efforts.

Discusses the tandem of non-governmental organizations (NGO) with the government in China. Role of the NGO in the country; Significance of this role in removing government influence; Attentions being focused by these organizations; Capability and influence of NGO; Future of the country's NGO; Impact of this tandem on the effectiveness of the social stability in the country.

Presents views on the psychological and moral aspects of cosmetic surgery among women in modern Chinese society. Importance of self-confidence in personal beauty; Pervasiveness of a culture of vanity; Equal treatment of all people.

Comments on the significance for the Chinese people to embrace the concept of living in harmony with nature in order to build a well-off society. Environmental pollution in China; Need of people for a sound environment; Vital aspects of a well-off society.

Provides insights on the need for more time for cultural assimiliation in Beijing, China. Characteristics of the Chinese; Things that only foreigners can help with.

Comments on the issue of poverty reduction in China. Achievement of China in reducing its poor population; Impact of a large poor population on economic development; Call for coordinated social efforts in addressing poverty.