This study investigates the determinants of attitudes toward gender inequality among Chinese individuals using data from five waves of the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) and the East Asian Social Survey (EASS, 2016). The study finds that while there's some evidence of evolving attitudes – notably, a growing expectation that women should be more involved in paid work – progress is uneven, and traditional views remain prevalent. Education emerges as the most significant factor positively correlated with egalitarian attitudes, with higher education among wives also impacting respondents' views. The urban-rural gap in attitudes is largely attributable to educational disparities. The study also reveals a conflict between patrilineal values and support for gender equality, suggesting traditional culture as a key factor contributing to gender inequality in China. The findings have significant policy implications, highlighting the importance of promoting education, particularly for women in rural areas, to reduce negative attitudes towards gender equality.

Qianqian Wang, Tsun-Feng Chiang, Jing Jian Xiao