Path dependence and the evolution of HRM in China
This study explores Chinese HRM history from the late seventeenth century, focusing on the mechanisms of evolution. We use path dependence theory to divide this process into five historical stages: (1) pre Opium War (before 1840) (2) early modernization period (1840 1917) (3) inter war period (1918 1949) (4) centrally planned economy period (1949 1979) (5) reform and opening up (1979 present) Using detailed historical records, we examined how the evolution of HRM in China was shaped by firms' path dependent choices in response to 'path breaking' events, according to institutional endowments. Because of the different institutional contexts in which they emerged, HRM institutions in later stages preserved the characteristics of those in earlier ones. This explains the underlying logic that differentiates HRM in China from HRM in other countries and creates disparities within China.