Gamifying Trust - Can you win at life? China's Social Credit System and the rating revolution

Abstract

China’s Social Credit System, which was expected to be fully operational by 2020, was one of the most complex governance projects ever attempted and the first of its kind in the e-governance sphere. Through a system of points that rewards good behaviour and punishes breaches in trust, the Social Credit System aimed to improve social cohesion and strengthen the rule of law. The system had been the subject of intense debate, however. Concerns included the use of big data, infringements on human rights, social profiling, and the potential for corruption. This case study centres on the city of Rongcheng and its experience implementing the Social Credit System. It provides a historical background on the evolution of social management and control in China, arguments for and against the scheme, and a set of policy options.