Explanations on Chinese way of thinking

⚠️ This book is generated by AI, the content may not be 100% accurate.

1 Interpersonal relationships

1.1 Parental relationships

📖 Beliefs and patterns in relationships between parents and children, including filial piety and multi-generational living.

1.1.1 item Harmony within the family is of utmost importance.

• rationale:
  • The traditional Chinese worldview emphasizes the importance of social harmony and stability, and this extends to the family unit. Maintaining harmonious relationships within the family is seen as essential for the well-being of all members and for the smooth functioning of society as a whole.

1.1.2 item Parents are to be revered and obeyed.

• rationale:
  • Filial piety is a core Confucian value that emphasizes the importance of respect and obedience towards one’s parents. This belief is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and is seen as a fundamental aspect of being a good person.

1.1.3 item Children should care for their elderly parents.

• rationale:
  • In traditional Chinese culture, it is considered the responsibility of children to care for their aging parents. This belief is based on the idea that parents have sacrificed much for their children and deserve to be supported and cared for in their old age.

1.1.4 item Multi-generational living is common.

• rationale:
  • In China, it is common for multiple generations of a family to live together under one roof. This practice is seen as a way to strengthen family bonds and provide support to both the elderly and the young.

1.1.5 item Family relationships are often complex and nuanced.

• rationale:
  • Chinese family relationships are often characterized by a complex web of obligations, expectations, and emotions. This can lead to both strong bonds and intense conflicts, and it is important to understand the cultural context in order to navigate these relationships effectively.

1.2 Romantic relationships

📖 Beliefs and patterns in romantic relationships, including arranged marriages, family involvement, and saving face.

1.2.1 item The family is the most important unit in society, and romantic relationships should be based on the family’s needs.

• rationale:
  • This belief stems from the Confucian tradition, which emphasizes the importance of filial piety and respect for one’s ancestors. In Chinese culture, the family is seen as the foundation of society, and romantic relationships are seen as a way to strengthen the family unit.

1.2.2 item Marriage is a sacred bond, and divorce is strongly discouraged.

• rationale:
  • This belief is based on the Confucian ideal of marriage as a lifelong commitment. Divorce is seen as a failure of both the husband and wife, and it is often frowned upon by society.

1.2.3 item Arranged marriages are still common in some parts of China, and they are often seen as a way to ensure the stability of the family.

• rationale:
  • Arranged marriages are typically arranged by the parents of the bride and groom, and they are often based on factors such as social status, economic background, and family connections. While arranged marriages are becoming less common in urban areas, they are still relatively common in rural areas.

1.2.4 item Saving face is important in Chinese culture, and it can influence the way people behave in romantic relationships.

• rationale:
  • Saving face refers to the importance of maintaining one’s reputation and social status. In Chinese culture, it is considered important to avoid embarrassing oneself or one’s family, and this can lead people to be more cautious in their romantic relationships.

1.2.5 item Chinese people are often more reserved in their romantic relationships than Americans, and they may be less likely to express their emotions openly.

• rationale:
  • This belief is based on the Confucian ideal of self-control and emotional restraint. In Chinese culture, it is considered important to be polite and respectful, and this can lead people to be more reserved in their romantic relationships.

1.3 Friendship

📖 Beliefs and patterns in friendships, including the importance of loyalty, guanxi, and group harmony.

1.3.1 item Maintaining harmony is more important than expressing individual opinions.

• rationale:
  • Chinese culture values collectivism and social order, so individuals often suppress their personal views to avoid disrupting group harmony.

1.3.2 item Friendships are built on mutual obligations and reciprocity.

• rationale:
  • The concept of guanxi (relationships) is central to Chinese society, and it extends to friendships. Friends are expected to support and help each other in various ways.

1.3.3 item Loyalty is a highly valued trait in friendships.

• rationale:
  • Betrayal and disloyalty are considered serious offenses in Chinese culture, and friends are expected to be there for each other through thick and thin.

1.3.4 item Age and seniority are respected in friendships.

• rationale:
  • Chinese culture emphasizes respect for elders and those in positions of authority, which also applies to friendships. Younger friends often defer to older friends, and friends with higher social status may be treated with more deference.

1.3.5 item Friendships are often based on shared experiences and common interests.

• rationale:
  • Chinese people tend to value friendships that are built on shared experiences, such as attending the same school, working in the same company, or growing up in the same neighborhood. Common interests, such as hobbies or activities, can also play a role in forging friendships.

1.4 Interpersonal communication

📖 Beliefs and patterns in interpersonal communication, including indirect language, non-verbal cues, and the avoidance of direct confrontation.

1.4.1 item Harmony is valued above all else.

• rationale:
  • This belief stems from the Confucian philosophy of ren, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining social harmony and avoiding conflict. As a result, Chinese people are often reluctant to express their true feelings or opinions if they think it will disrupt the peace.

1.4.2 item Indirect communication is preferred.

• rationale:
  • Chinese people often use indirect communication to avoid causing offense or embarrassment. This can be seen in the way they use euphemisms,婉转表达, and avoid saying no directly.

1.4.3 item Non-verbal cues are important.

• rationale:
  • Chinese people pay close attention to non-verbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and eye contact. These cues can convey a great deal of information, so it is important to be aware of them when communicating with Chinese people.

1.4.4 item Direct confrontation is avoided.

• rationale:
  • Chinese people generally avoid direct confrontation because it is seen as失礼. As a result, they may prefer to hint at their feelings or opinions rather than state them outright.

1.4.5 item Saving face is important.

• rationale:
  • Chinese people place a great deal of importance on saving face, both for themselves and for others. This means that they are careful not to do anything that could embarrass or humiliate someone else.

1.5 Social hierarchy and respect

📖 Beliefs and patterns related to social hierarchy and respect, including the importance of age, status, and authority.

1.5.1 item Age and seniority are highly respected in Chinese culture.

• rationale:
  • Respect for elders and those in positions of authority is deeply ingrained in Chinese society. This stems from Confucian values that emphasize the importance of hierarchy and social order.

1.5.2 item Maintaining harmony and avoiding conflict is a priority in social interactions.

• rationale:
  • Chinese culture values social harmony and politeness. People are encouraged to be respectful and considerate of others, even in disagreements, to preserve relationships and avoid causing offense.

1.5.3 item Saving face is crucial for individuals and groups.

• rationale:
  • In Chinese culture, social status and reputation are highly valued. People strive to avoid embarrassing or humiliating situations that could damage their or their family’s reputation.

1.5.4 item Indirect communication and subtle hints are often used to convey messages.

• rationale:
  • Chinese culture emphasizes subtlety and indirectness in communication. People may avoid direct confrontation or blunt statements to maintain harmony and avoid causing offense.

1.5.5 item Connections and relationships (guanxi) play a significant role in Chinese society.

• rationale:
  • Building and maintaining personal connections is highly valued in Chinese culture. People rely on their networks to access resources, gain favors, and advance their goals.