How Confucian are Contemporary Chinese? Construction of an Ideal Type and its Application to Three Chinese Communities

Abstract

As a major source of social values in East Asia, Confucianism assumes especial significance amidst the proliferation of instrumental rationality in modern societies. This study attempts to answer the question: how Confucian are contemporary Chinese? By way of constructing an ideal type of Confucian actors, which is then applied to a survey of three Chinese communities, this study tries to formulate a new perspective in depicting the character of modern Confucian actors, measured in terms of their dynamic proximity to the Confucian ideal type. Our approach marks a shift of emphasis, both empirically and methodologically, compared with previous work on this topic. On the empirical side, our study breaks with the longstanding, classical distinction between the 'gentleman' and the 'commoner' prevalent in Confucian discourse. Degrees of proximity to Confucian values are viewed in representational-i.e. non-evaluative-terms. In constructing the ideal type of Confucian actors, we distinguish between formal and substantive values in Confucianism. This analytical distinction allows our study to demonstrate the continued relevance of Confucianism. While substantive values change over time, the formal, analytical core that captures the essence of Confucianism continues to survive in the face of the vicissitudes of modernity and the spread of instrumental rationality.

Motivation, Legitimation, or Both? Reciprocal Effects of Parental Meritocratic Beliefs and Children’s Educational Performance in China

“…Unlike global Chinese cities, such as Beijing and Shanghai, rural areas preserve traditional values (Chen and Chiu 2010; Wu 2017). In rural areas, filial piety, loyalty and self-sacrifice, and a general Confucian consciousness (Yang et al 2006) still explain individual beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. In addition, besides promoting thrift and respect for authority, Confucian values also advocate for educational achievement and hard work (Lim 2003).…”

Understanding Cross-National Differences in Risk Through a Localized Cultural Perspective

“…Zhong Yong emphasizes avoiding extremes when two opposing views are encountered, to resolve conflicts and achieve the ultimate goal of Zhong Yong: harmonious relationships among individuals, people and society, and people and nature (G. M. Chen & Chung, 1994; Cheung et al, 2006; He, 1998; H. Yu, 2001; Y.…”

“…Zhong Yong has a strong foundation in the Chinese education system and influences many aspects of Chinese life, such as literature, architecture, ethical beliefs, modes of thinking, and decision making (Ou, 1998;Sun, 2008). Zhong Yong emphasizes avoiding extremes when two opposing views are encountered, to resolve conflicts and achieve the ultimate goal of Zhong Yong: harmonious relationships among individuals, people and society, and people and nature (G. M. Chen & Chung, 1994;Cheung et al, 2006;He, 1998;H. Yu, 2001;Y.…”

Wine Brand Category Choice and Confucianism: A Purchase Motivation Comparison of Caucasian, Chinese and Korean Consumers

“…Moreover, when consumers select products for several particular purchasing occasions such as gift giving, their purchasing motivation and behaviour are associated culture (Baumann & Hamin, 2014). In East Asia (and for East Asian immigrants), Confucianism has been the essential foundation of culture and society for more than 2000 years, particularly in China and Korea (Ji & Dimitratos, 2013 (Cheung et al, 2006;Dalton, 2005), and ultimately, as we probe in our study, consumption.…”