Innovative Resistance: Understanding Public Sentiment in China’s 5G NIMBY Context

Danmin Li and Danyang Zhang ()
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Danmin Li: East China University of Political Science and Law
Danyang Zhang: Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, No 6, 160-188

Abstract: Abstract This study ventures into the complex terrain of public opinion expression in China’s 5G NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) incidents, delineating a critical juncture in the evolution of digital activism and socio-legal dynamics. Utilizing qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), our research explores the intricate modalities of dissent in the backdrop of China’s rigid internet regulations and emerging 5G technology. The study uncovers a paradigm shift in protest strategies, from traditional forms to “low-intensity protests” and a surprising emphasis on health-related concerns over procedural justice. This transition highlights an intricate interplay between cultural values, legal norms, and technological apprehensions. Our findings reveal a nuanced balance between “traditional morality” and “modern legality,” underlining the complex impact of cultural and legal frameworks on public perception and response to technological advancements. Our exploration extends beyond the typical NIMBY narrative by examining the expression dynamics within China’s socio-political fabric, marked by a discreet yet potent form of digital activism. The study’s implications are manifold, offering novel insights for policymakers and local authorities in managing public sentiment toward 5G technology. It emphasizes the importance of addressing health concerns and procedural justice to foster productive community dialog and engagement. This research contributes significantly to the knowledge economy by providing a unique lens into China’s contentious politics of technological innovation and governance. It bridges academic research gaps and informs effective policy solutions, underscoring the vital role of knowledge in navigating the complexities of technology, society, and law.

Keywords: Political communication; Contentious politics; Public engagement; Social movements; Emerging technologies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s13132-024-01942-9

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