China‘s Global Vision: A Blend of Harmony, Hierarchy, and Assertiveness22

Understanding China's international outlook requires moving beyond simplistic narratives of "rising power" or "threat." A nuanced perspective necessitates examining its deep-rooted cultural values and how they shape its interactions on the world stage. While China's foreign policy is undeniably pragmatic and driven by national interests, its approach is fundamentally informed by a unique blend of Confucian ideals, historical experiences, and a rapidly evolving sense of national self-confidence. This complex tapestry distinguishes its international posture from those of other major powers.

At its core, the Chinese world view reflects a long-standing emphasis on harmony and order. Confucianism, with its emphasis on hierarchical relationships, social harmony (he 和), and the importance of maintaining social stability, has profoundly influenced China's approach to international relations. This translates into a preference for multilateralism, consensus-building, and non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations. The concept of "non-alignment" during the Cold War, while also pragmatically driven, resonates with this inherent preference for avoiding direct confrontation and maintaining a balanced relationship with various powers.

However, this emphasis on harmony shouldn't be mistaken for passivity. The historical narrative of China, marked by periods of both immense strength and vulnerability, profoundly informs its current international posture. Centuries of foreign encroachment, humiliation during the "Century of Humiliation," and the subsequent struggle for national rejuvenation have instilled a deep-seated sense of national pride and a determination to avoid a repeat of past injustices. This contributes to a more assertive stance on the global stage, particularly in defending its core interests and challenging perceived historical injustices.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a flagship foreign policy project, exemplifies this blend of harmony and assertiveness. While presented as a collaborative effort aimed at promoting economic development and connectivity, the BRI also serves China's strategic interests by expanding its economic influence, securing access to vital resources, and solidifying its position in global governance structures. This showcases a pragmatic approach where cooperation and competition coexist.

China's international view also emphasizes reciprocity and mutual benefit. The concept of "win-win cooperation" (hu li gongying 互利共赢) is frequently invoked in its diplomatic discourse. While often criticized for being a tool to mask its own strategic ambitions, it reflects a fundamental belief in the possibility of mutually beneficial outcomes. This is rooted in the traditional Chinese emphasis on maintaining balance and avoiding zero-sum games, contrasting with the more confrontational approaches prevalent in Western political thought.

Furthermore, the concept of "civilizational dialogue" plays a significant role in China's approach to global engagement. China increasingly positions itself as a representative of non-Western civilizations, advocating for a multipolar world order that is less dominated by Western norms and values. This is driven by a desire to promote its own cultural influence and to create a more equitable global system. However, it also raises concerns about the potential for a clash of civilizations, as the promotion of alternative values can be perceived as a challenge to the existing international order.

China's increasingly assertive foreign policy in recent years has been met with both opportunity and apprehension globally. Its economic clout, technological advancements, and growing military capabilities have made it a major player in international affairs. This assertive posture is often linked to its ambitions of reclaiming its rightful place as a global leader, echoing its historical self-perception as the "Middle Kingdom." However, this assertiveness has also led to increased tensions with the West, particularly regarding issues such as Taiwan, the South China Sea, and human rights.

The Chinese government's rhetoric often emphasizes the importance of peaceful development and avoiding conflict, reflecting a deep-seated cultural aversion to large-scale warfare. However, its military modernization and its increasingly confident stance in territorial disputes suggest a willingness to use force as a last resort to protect its national interests. This ambiguity underscores the complexity of China's international posture – a mix of traditional values and modern ambitions.

In conclusion, China's international outlook is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by its rich history, cultural values, and evolving national interests. It's characterized by a complex interplay of harmony, hierarchy, and assertiveness. Understanding this nuanced perspective is crucial for navigating the increasingly complex relationship between China and the rest of the world. While the emphasis on harmony and mutual benefit provides a framework for cooperation, the underlying assertiveness and the pursuit of national rejuvenation necessitate a careful and pragmatic approach from other nations.

It is imperative to move beyond simplistic generalizations and engage in a deeper understanding of China's motivations and objectives. Only through such engagement can we build a more stable and productive relationship with a nation that is poised to play an increasingly prominent role in shaping the future of the global order.

2025-06-01

Previous：Ranking China‘s Cultural Powerhouses: A Deep Dive into Industry Influence

Next：Exploring the Enduring Legacy of Ancient Chinese Culture