Many in China think themselves 'grassroots'
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"Most citizens, including white-collar workers, categorize themselves as being grassroots," according to Cui Lijuan, a professor of psychology and cognitive science at Shanghai-based East China Normal University.
"Some well-educated and well-paid people consider themselves to be grassroots as well, even though that often entails an attitude of detesting officials and the rich," Xia said.
Hu Xingdou, a professor of economics at the Beijing Institute of Technology, said: "In a modern society, citizens should have influence in decision-making process, management and supervision. Many people, therefore, use the word 'grassroots' as a taunt, to show they lack these rights."
He believes China is still far from being a civil society.
"In China, the official standard system is deeply rooted in people's minds," Hu said. "This should be replaced by the notion of civil rights, so that more people can understand and use their rights as leaders of the country."
Sociologists also said those who consider themselves to be part of the grassroots movement should try to avoid alienating themselves from elites.
Instead of having an antagonistic relationship, those belonging to the elite and grassroots group should strive to complement each other.
"The elite used to dominate those in the grassroots group, but now grassroots people can spread their messages farther.
"We should encourage a fusion of the two," Xia said. "The elite group can benefit the grassroots group. And the grassroots group, which is rooted in the public, and to some extent more vital, can give new life to the elites."
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