BRIEF NO 13
PRIME MINISTER'S VISIT TO CHINA AND HONG KONG, 18-21 DECEMBER 1984
CHINESE ATTITUDES AND SENSITIVITIES : BACKGROUND NOTE
Formative influences
1. Modern Chinese attitudes have evolved as a result of the following historical, geographical and cultural factors.
a. DEPTH OF HISTORICAL TRADITION
Theories of ethics and statecraft developed from first millenium BC. Among these, Confucian precepts governing the orderly conduct of human relationships proved exceptionally
durable.
b. BASIC GEOGRAPHIC AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
From the beginnings of their recorded history the Chinese were more numerous than neighbouring races and were distinguished by their settled agricultural activity from most of their neighbours who were nomadic. While they are conscious of the difficulty of defending their long western and northern borders, the size of their country and population instils in the Chinese confidence in the ability of their civilization to survive challenges from
outside.
C.
CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT
Through the medium of the Chinese written language, Chinese thought and literature spread their influence in East Asia. Despite initial problems, Buddhism was satisfactorily assimilated and spread in Chinese forms to other east Asian countries.
a.
THE "MANDATE OF HEAVEN"
In
According to Confucian theory the authority of the emperor depended on the "mandate of heaven", which would be removed if the emperor failed to fulfil his responsibilities to his subjects. such a case a new emperor would emerge, having gained authority through leading a popular revolt.
/e.