The Contingent Value of Entrepreneurs’ Political Capital: Evidence from China

Authors

Juan Ling, Georgia College & State University
Lei Xu, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Weiqi Zhang, Suffolk University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-3-2019

Publication Title

Journal of Asia-Pacific Business

Abstract

Who benefit from a transitioning economy, entrepreneurs who are politically connected or disconnected? Market transition theory and power conversion theory offer two divergent answers. Our study seeks to contribute to this debate by examining the contingent value of entrepreneurs’ political capital. We draw from social network theories and investigate whether and how entrepreneurs’ social networks influence the relationship between their political capital and social mobility. Using the data on Chinese entrepreneurs, we find that the impact of political capital on entrepreneurs’ social mobility is contingent on their network centrality. Practical implications and suggestions for future research are also discussed.

Department

Management, Marketing, and Logistics

Volume Number

20

Issue Number

3

First Page

189

Last Page

214

DOI

10.1080/10599231.2019.1647077

Recommended Citation

Ling, Z., Ling, J. & Xu. L. (43649). The Contingent Value of Entrepreneurs’ Political Capital: Evidence from China. Journal of Asia-Pacific Business, 20(3), 189-214.