How Do I Understand Chinese Culture?

The Forbidden City in Beijing is a well-known landmark in China.

China is a vast and ancient nation. In the 20th century China began its rise as a major power in global economics. More and more people from around the world are interested in understanding Chinese cultural practices.

Belief Systems

Chinese culture has been greatly influenced by the belief systems of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Over the centuries, world views from these philosophies have become integrated into elements of culture in China. Huston Smith's "The Illustrated World's Religions: A Guide to Our Wisdom Traditions" provides a comprehensive overview of these belief systems.

History

Learn about the ancient, premodern and modern history of China for historical context of how Chinese culture developed into what it is today. Read works by Chinese history scholar Jonathan D. Spence and personal accounts of those who lived during the many political changes in 20th-century China.

Ethnic Groups

Educate yourself about the differences between the many ethnic groups in China. Tibet is part of China but has its own distinct language, culture and religion. The Hakka, Uighur, Mongols and Manchurians are a few others who live within the geographical borders of the nation but have their own cultural identities.

References

• "The Search for Modern China"; Jonathan D. Spence; 1991
• "The Illustrated World's Religions: A Guide to Our Wisdom Traditions"; Huston Smith; 1995
• CIA World Factbook: China
• Asia Society: Ethnic Minorities in China

Resources

• "Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China"; Jung Chang; 2003
• "Is Taiwan Chinese?"; Melissa J. Brown; 2004