The transition of guanxi: a case study of hairdressing apprenticeships in Song County

Abstract Through an examination of the apprenticeship system within the hairdressing industry in Song County, Shandong Province, this study finds that, since the 1990s, the master-apprentice relationship has gradually shifted from a quasi-family relationship to a quasi-employment relationship , transitioning from a foundation of qing (情; affection) to one of li (利; profit). This study employs a yi-li-qing (义-利-情; obligation- profit- affection) analytical framework to analyze the dynamics within this shifting master-apprenticeship relationship. The quasi-family relationship is essentially an affection-based relationship with genuine obligation and subdued utility, where ethical guidelines for master-apprentice identities are emphasized, emotional connections from sustained interaction are valued, and demands for profit are relatively minor. In contrast, the quasi-employment relationship represents an instrumental relationship where profit-oriented interests are becoming the standard and goal of interaction, while ethical norms and affectional bonds play only a limited regulatory role. Compared to a sentiment-instrumentality dual framework, the yi-li-qing framework provides a more comprehensive depiction of the intrinsic attributes of guanxi , illustrating the dynamics and complexities arising from shifts in the social structure.