27 Chen, Xiaodong, Ding Li, and Pengyu Zhu. “Long-term impacts of historical education policy on wages in China: insights on over-education.” Humanities & Social Sciences Communications 12, no. 959 (2025). Focus of Study This study examines the long-term impact of China’s historical Imperial Examination System (IES, 1371–1905) on contemporary workers’ wages, using Jinshi density (highest IES attainment) as a proxy. Employing 2SLS analysis with instrumental variables (access to study materials via river proximity to bamboo/pine forests, and transportation accessibility via the Grand Canal/Ming Courier Stations), it nds that a 1% increase in Jinshi density per 10,000 people raises current wages by 7.9–13.1% (equivalent to 1030–1710 CNY in 2004). The effects are stronger in labor-intensive and high-technology rms, and operate through two key channels: human capital (improved education levels, degree/technical title structures) and social capital (enhanced innovation, favorable rm capital structures, talent migration attraction). Additionally, the IES positively in uences fringe bene ts (welfare, medical insurance) and public services (hospitals, transportation). Policy Recommendations Policymakers should leverage the persistent cultural emphasis on education shaped by the IES to further enhance human capital development. Invest in educational infrastructure and technical training programs in regions with historical IES success, as these areas exhibit stronger wage and productivity dividends. Strengthen social welfare and public service provision in these regions to amplify the positive spillover effects of accumulated human and social capital. Additionally, recognize and preserve the cultural value of historical education systems to sustain long-term economic and social bene ts. SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
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