Below is a list in order of relevance to your search query. This 6 page research paper briefly draws on some of the information provided in McNeill's 'Plagues and People,' as well as other information that illustrates that disease can have positive effects for a population.
Bibliography lists four sources.
This 3 page report discusses the rise of Hong Xiuquan and his version of Christian theology that led him and his followers in an attempt to overthrow the Qing Dynasty. No additional sources cited. A 5 page paper discussing modern China with reference to long-standing beliefs and practices. As a culture both ancient and so new as to be positively modern, China remains a study in contrasts. China remains an official 'big emerging market,' but it is yet unclear just what form of government and economic structure will grow from the current chaos.