A path dependence perspective on the Chinese cadastral system

Abstract

Cadastral systems differ in countries due to specific historical, political, economic and cultural context. The fundamental role of cadastral system in land administration is well acknowledged which leads to increasing interest from researchers worldwide. Despite China being the most populous country in the world, its cadastral system is rarely studied. This paper aims to use path dependence as an interpretive lens to analyse the historical background and existing situation of the cadastral system in China. Three stages in the Chinese cadastral system are identified: the contingent phase, the self-reinforcing phase and the lock-in phase from the perspective of path dependence. According to t..