In our latest reading and class discussions we talk about Chinas values and progress. Do you think that the Chinese use their values and morals as an excuse of why they didn't surpass Europe in economic success?
I don't think that China used their values as an excuse, but rather an explanation as to why Europe surpassed China during the 19th century. China, ever since the early stages of Chinese civilization, has always stood very strong in their traditional values of order and respect. It is very difficult to maintain these values in a society with a booming, essentially capitalist economy.
I think it is possible that, instead of using it as an excuse, China used the emphasis of their values as a way to prove that they were morally better than Europe. While both had very similar economies, it is evident that China was more focused on the well being of their nation and not just their economy. This is shown when Commissioner Lin tries to assert China's morals to stop the opium trade.
I don't think that China used their values as an excuse, but rather an explanation as to why Europe surpassed China during the 19th century. China, ever since the early stages of Chinese civilization, has always stood very strong in their traditional values of order and respect. It is very difficult to maintain these values in a society with a booming, essentially capitalist economy.
ReplyDeleteI think it is possible that, instead of using it as an excuse, China used the emphasis of their values as a way to prove that they were morally better than Europe. While both had very similar economies, it is evident that China was more focused on the well being of their nation and not just their economy. This is shown when Commissioner Lin tries to assert China's morals to stop the opium trade.
ReplyDelete