CHINESE ATTITUDES AND SENSITIVITIES
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.
d. THE "MANDATE OF HEAVEN"
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. In such a case a new emperor would emerge, having gained authority through leading a popular revolt.
e.
RELATIONS WITH NEIGHBOURING PEOPLES Symbolised by the Great Wall, a prime concern of Chinese governments has been the protection of their settled society from the depredations of nomadic and warlike neighbours. The Chinese, regarding these neighbours as barbarians, used the tributary system to secure their recognition of the Emperor's authority, making tactical alliances in accordance with the principle of "using barbarians to control barbarians" for the protection of Chinese domains. The relationship between the Chinese empire and its neighbours was one of the dominant central power and lesser tribes. Consequently there was no concept of equality in its dealings with its neighbours. When the Chinese succumbed to the rule of invaders, first the Mongols in the 13th century and then the Manchus in the 17th, Chinese culture and methods of government proved stronger than those of the conquerors.
f.
THE IMPACT OF THE WEST
The arrival of Western merchants, missionaries and military force in the 19th century was a severe shock to the Chinese system. Chinese eyes the physical appearance of the Westerners was
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