THE TEOCHIU: ETHNICITY IN URBAN HONG KONG
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groups in relation to a number of variables, as well as behavioural questions concerning actual interaction with other ethnic groups.
Teochiu generally conceive of their own ethnic group in positive terms, although there are some exceptions. Positive conceptions of Teochiu focus on three pivotal elements:
(1) Economic values-Teochiu are very thrifty and hard working, and want to fully support their families by themselves (this usually means that they want to run their own business). (2) Group solidarity-Teochiu are united vis-a-vis other ethnic groups and place strong emphasis on willingness to assist other Teochiu.
(3) Familial and social behavioural norms-Teochiu place greater emphasis upon traditional norms than do other ethnic groups and particularly stress filial devotion, respectful behaviour toward elders, the importance of maintaining face, protecting the family and clan reputation, concern for public affairs.
A small number of respondents to the questionnaire verbalized negative conceptions, primarily emphasizing the selfishness of Teochiu, their concern only for themselves and their families rather than for the wider group.
Teochiu generally consider Shanghai people fairly positively, emphasizing their ability to manage large scale factories and their politeness (which is seen as a function of having lived in a large city like Shanghai). Cantonese are generally not perceived as very threatening to Teochiu but are considered to be lacking in moral fibre, in that they do not place much emphasis upon traditional norms (that is, they eat out too much, spend rather than save money, the men allow their wives to leave home to work, are not as filial as Teochiu, etc). Teochiu either know very little about Fukien or consider them to be friendly and polite. Hakka are simple, plain and diligent, although there is some question about the morality of Hakka men in allowing their women to work so hard. The most vehement and outspoken statements are reserved for Hoi Luk Fung (*), people from two districts adjacent to Teochiu further south along the Kwangtung coast. This group is relatively unknown except to people from northeastern Kwangtung. Most Teochiu
The questionnaire data has not yet been fully analysed. Findings presented here represent general trends in the data.
THE TEOCHIU: ETHNICITY IN URBAN HONG KONG
29
groups in relation to a number of variables, as well as behavioural questions concerning actual interaction with other ethnic groups.
Teochiu generally conceive of their own ethnic group in positive terms, although there are some exceptions. Positive conceptions of Teochiu focus on three pivotal elements:
(1) Economic values-Teochiu are very thrifty and hard working, and want to fully support their families by themselves (this usually means that they want to run their own business). (2) Group solidarity-Teochiu are united vis-a-vis other ethnic groups and place strong emphasis on willingness to assist other Teochiu.
(3) Familial and social behavioural norms-Teochiu place greater emphasis upon traditional norms than do other ethnic groups and particularly stress filial devotion, respectful behaviour toward elders, the importance of maintaining face, protecting the family and clan reputation, concern for public affairs.
A small number of respondents to the questionnaire verbalized negative conceptions, primarily emphasizing the selfishness of Teochiu, their concern only for themselves and their families rather than for the wider group.
Teochiu generally consider Shanghai people fairly positively, emphasizing their ability to manage large scale factories and their politeness (which is seen as a function of having lived in a large city like Shanghai). Cantonese are generally not perceived as very threatening to Teochiu but are considered to be lacking in moral fibre, in that they do not place much emphasis upon traditional norms (that is, they eat out too much, spend rather than save money. the men allow their wives to leave home to work, are not as filial as Teochiu, etc). Teochiu either know very little about Fukien or consider them to be friendly and polite. Hakka are simple, plain and diligent, although there is some question about the morality of Hakka men in allowing their women to work so hard. The most vehcment and outspoken statements are reserved for Hoi Luk Fung (*), people from two districts adjacent to Teochiu further south along the Kwangtung coast. This group is relatively unknown except to people from northeastern Kwangtung. Most Teochiu
I The questionnaire data has not yet been fully analysed. Findings presented here represent general trends in the data.
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