Abstract：This paper introduces an institutionalist framework for analyzing transformations in local governances developed by two professors of University of Newcastle, Patsy Healey Jon and Coaffee. On the basis of that, the paper tries to develop such a framework for analyzing China's local governance practice. The framework centers on an analytical conception of levels of social formation: specific episodes of collective action; the ongoing work of governance practices and discourse formation and use; and underpinning culturally embedded assumptions and habits. The central argument is that transformations in local governance capacity need to penetrate all three levels to effect enduring changes in governance cultures.
