From Xinhua Style to Nonfiction Narrative: The Evolution of Chinese Journalistic Genres and Its Driving Mechanisms (1978–2020)

Yuhang Sun

doi:10.47297/wsprolaadWSP2634-786541.20260703

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From Xinhua Style to Nonfiction Narrative: The Evolution of Chinese Journalistic Genres and Its Driving Mechanisms (1978–2020)

Volume 7, Issue 3

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From Xinhua Style to Nonfiction Narrative: The Evolution of Chinese Journalistic Genres and Its Driving Mechanisms (1978–2020)
From Xinhua Style to Nonfiction Narrative: The Evolution of Chinese Journalistic Genres and Its Driving Mechanisms (1978–2020)
Faculty of Humanities and Social Science, Beijing Normal - Hong Kong Baptist University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519087, China
Vol. 7, Issue 3, Pages: 184-189(2026)
Online First：04 August 2026，

Published：30 June 2026
DOI：10.47297/wsprolaadWSP2634-786541.20260703
Accepted：

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Sun Yuhang.From Xinhua Style to Nonfiction Narrative: The Evolution of Chinese Journalistic Genres and Its Driving Mechanisms (1978–2020)[J].Research on Literary and Art Development,2026,07(03):184-189.
DOI：

Sun Yuhang.From Xinhua Style to Nonfiction Narrative: The Evolution of Chinese Journalistic Genres and Its Driving Mechanisms (1978–2020)[J].Research on Literary and Art Development,2026,07(03):184-189. DOI： 10.47297/wsprolaadWSP2634-786541.20260703.

摘要

Abstract

This study examines the transformation of mainstream Chinese journalistic genres from the dominant "Xinhua Style" to in-depth reporting

feature stories

and nonfiction writing between 1978 and 2020. Through historical analysis and comparative textual examination

this paper identifies four distinct phases in this evolutionary trajectory: the reform and opening period (1978–1989)

marketization and the rise of investigative journalism (1990–2003)

digital disruption and fragmentation (2003–2012)

and the institutionalization of nonfiction narrative (2012–2020). Drawing upon Bourdieu's field theory and the political economy of communication

this study argues that the evolution of Chinese journalistic genres was driven by the interaction of four mechanisms: political-administrative logic

market-audience logic

technological-platform logic

and professional-identity logic. Rather than representing a linear progression toward professional autonomy

this transformation reflects a continuous negotiation among multiple field forces within China's distinctive media ecosystem.

关键词

Keywords

references

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