Final answer:
China's economic reform in the late 20th century resulted in rapid economic growth, increased income inequality, and enhanced global trade relations, while avoiding political instability, contrary to one of the options provided.
Step-by-step explanation:
The outcomes and unintended consequences of China's economic reform in the late 20th century are multifaceted. Among the outcomes were:
- Rapid economic growth: China experienced phenomenal growth and transformed from one of the world's poorest countries into a middle-income country.
- Increased income inequality: The shift towards a market-based economy led to a disparity in income levels, with some benefiting more than others.
- Enhanced global trade relations: China's open trade policies and the creation of special economic zones (SEZs) have significantly improved its trade relations with the rest of the world.
- Political instability: This was not a characteristic outcome of China's economic reforms; in fact, the reforms have generally been associated with maintaining political stability within the country.
Although not among the listed options, unintended consequences such as environmental degradation and a rural-to-urban population shift have also arisen due to the economic reform and industrialization.