I have followed the responses to David Brooks' essay “Harmony and the Dream” published in the New York Times with interest ever since first reading James Fallows mercilessly picking Brooks' theme apart. There have been others joining the "onslaught" as well since then. Elliott Ng has now compiled a nice summary of Brooks' thesis and various responses online. It is well worth a … [Read more...] about Recommended reading: The Online Evisceration of David Brooks, A Cautionary Tale
culture
(Letter) Where does China fit in the West's understanding of the world?
Mainlanders often feel exasperated by constant Western criticism, as if no matter what China does and no matter how much China accomplishes, it's never good enough in the eyes of Western nations. The poem "Chinese Grievances" (aka "What do you want from us?") expresses this feeling well. I think what's shared below will help us better understand this problem. … [Read more...] about (Letter) Where does China fit in the West's understanding of the world?
How to greet properly in traditional Chinese style
On July 18th, Beijing released a set of official Olympic and Paralympic posters and graphics. A sharp eyed reader quickly pointed out a mistake in one of the smiling face photos: … [Read more...] about How to greet properly in traditional Chinese style
Make guests feel at home and follow the customs of your host
There is a heated debate going on regarding the lack of Chinese characters on China's official Olympics uniforms in contrast with those on German's sportswear. Personally, I see no point in not printing Chinese text on China's official uniforms. But for this post, I will purposely play the role of a "CCP apologist" and try to put these things in positive terms. ;-) Besides, I … [Read more...] about Make guests feel at home and follow the customs of your host
(Letter from oldson) Chinese and American Culture
Culture, Society and Business The principles of business transactions are based on cultural values. To define culture we must first know where culture comes from. Culture comes from a mutual interaction between individuals, groups, subcultures and societies. Values, ideas and ideology are passed down from one generation to the next. Gradually over time they adapt to change … [Read more...] about (Letter from oldson) Chinese and American Culture