Chinese Customs, Superstitions and Traditions - Case Study Example

Multicultural Fact Sheet: China Language Listing of Languages Spoken: Achang, Ai-Cham, Ainu, Akha,Atuence, Ayi, Bai Central, Bai Northern, Bai Southern, Baima, Biao, Biao-Mon, Biao-Jiao-Mien, Bisu, Bit, Biyo, Blang, Bogan, Bolyu, Bonan, Bouyei, Bugan, Bunu Bu-Nao, Bunu Jiongnai, Bunu Wunai, BunuYounuo, Buriat China, Buxinhua, Buyang, Cao Lan, Cao Miao, Chinese Sign Language, Chinese Gan, Chinese Hakka, Chinese Huizhou, Chinese Jinyu, Chinese Mandarin, Chinese Min Bei, Chinese Min Dong, Chinese Min Nan, Chinese Min Zhong, Chinese Pu-Xian, Chinese Wu, Chinese Xiang, Chinese Yue, Choni, Cun Darang Deng, Daur, Dong Northern, Dong Southern, Dongxiang, Drung, Dzao Min E, English, Ersu, Evenki, Gahri, Gelao,Geman Deng, Groma, Guanyinqiao, Guiqiong, Hani, Hlai, Hmong Daw, Hmong Njua, Hmong Central Huishui, Hmong Central Mashan, Hmong Chonganjiang, Hmong Eastern Huishui, Hmong Eastern Qiandong, Hmong Eastern Xiangxi, Hmong Luopohe, Hmong Northeastern Dian, Hmong Northern Guiyang, Hmong Northern Huishui, Hmong Northern Mashan, Hmong Northern Qiandong, Hmong Southern Mashan, Hmong Southern Qiandong, Hmong Southwestern Guiyang, Hmong Southwestern Huishui, Hmong Western Mashan, Hmong Western Xiangxi, Honi, Horpa, Hu, Ili Turki, Iu Mien, Jiamao, Jiarong, Jingpho, Jinuo Buyuan, Jinuo Youle, Kado, Kaduo, Kalmyk-Oirat, Kang, Kazakh, Kemiehua, Khakas, Khmu, Khuen, Kim Mun, Kirghiz, Kon Keu, Korean, Kuanhua, Kyerung, Lachi, Ladakhi, Lahu, Lahu Shi, Laqua, Lashi, Lawa Western, Lhomi, Lingao, Lipo, Lisu, Lü, Luoba Bogaer, Luoba Yidu, Macanese, Mak, Man Met, Manchu, Mang, Maonan, Maru, Moinba, Mongolian Peripheral, Mulam, Muya, Namuyi, Nanai, Naxi, Nung, Nusu, Oroqen, Pa Di, Pa-Hng, Palaung Pale, Palaung Rumai, Palaung Shwe, Panang, Parauk, Pela, Phula, Pumi Northern, Pumi Southern, Qiang Northern, Qiang Southern, Queyu, Riang, Russian, Salar, Samei, Samtao, Sarikoli, Shangzhai, She, Sherpa, Shixing, Sui,Tai Hongjin, Tai Nüa, Tai Ya, Takpa, Tatar, T’en, Thangmi, Tibetan Amdo, Tibetan Central, Tibetan Khams, Tinani, Tsat, Tseku, Tshangla, Tu, Tujia Northern, Tujia Southern, Tuvin, U, Uyghur, Uzbek Northern, Vietnamese, Wa, Wakhi, Waxianghua, Wutunhua, Xiandao, Xibe, Yerong, Yi Ache, Yi Awu, Yi Axi, Yi Azhe, Yi Central, Yi Dayao, Yi Eastern Lalu, Yi Eshan-Xinping, Yi Guizhou, Yi Limi, Yi Milli, Yi Miqie, Yi Muji, Yi Naluo, Yi Poluo, Yi Pula, Yi Puwa, Yi Sani, Yi Sichuan, Yi Southeastern Lolo, Yi Southern, Yi Southern Lolopho, Yi Western, Yi Western Lalu, Yi Wuding-Luquan, Yi Wumeng, Yi Wusa, Yi Xishan Lalu, Yi Yuanjiang-Mojiang, Yugur East, Yugur West, Zaiwa, Zauzou, Zhaba, Zhuang Northern, Zhuang Southern (Gordon). 2. Origin of Languages: While many different languages are spoken in China, the most dominant of all these is Chinese spoken by approximately 95% of China’s population. It belongs to the Sino-Tibetan family of languages. Although Chinese itself consists of many different dialects that some linguists may consider to be separate languages altogether, most consider these dialects to be variations on the Mandarin dialect that originated from Peking. The Chinese spoken language or modern dialects have been derived from Archaic Chinese used between the 8th and 3rd century BC as well as Middle Chinese, which was used up until roughly the 11th century AD. The Chinese written language has origins that go back even further, texts have been discovered in the form of inscriptions from the 14th century that share many similarities with modern Chinese text. In the early 20th century an effort was made by reformists to standardize and homogenize the Chinese language, in order, to bridge the communication gap between the different cultures of China. The result of this effort was the introduction of Baihua a standardized written form of Chinese in 1917 as well as Putonghua, a standardized spoken Chinese derived from the Mandarin dialect, which was used in schools from 1956 onwards (Noll). 3. Sample of Languages: 诶 比 西 迪 伊 艾弗吉艾尺 艾 杰艾勒艾马艾 娜哦屁吉吾艾儿艾丝 提 伊吾维豆贝尔维 艾克斯吾艾贼德 (The Chinese Alphabet) Celebrations 1. Chinese New Year: Chinese New Year is the largest and most popularly celebrated of all of China’s festivals. The celebration is meant to herald the beginning of the new year according to the Chinese lunar calendar. It is a celebration that lasts for 15 days, with different activities planned for each day, usually revolving around family and friends and includes feasts, the distribution of presents, decorations and homage to ancestors (15 Day Celebration). 2. Qingming Festival: Qingming day otherwise known as Tomb Sweeping day is a popular celebration in China, that is commemorated when the Sun is at the longitude of 15 degrees. Emperor Xuanzong officially designated this day as one to formally pay respects to ancestors 2500 years ago. Activities on this day include tomb sweeping, kite flying, spring outings and tree plantings (Qingming Festival). 3. Dragon boat Festival: The Duanwu or Dragon Boat Festival celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. The festival is over 2000 years old and is said to commemorate the death of prominent poet Qu Yuan. Celebratory customs include the eating of rice dumplings, the drinking of red wine and the racing of dragon boats (dragon boat festival). Religions, Religious Leaders, Religious Symbols 1. Religions: Confucianism evolved in the 5th century BC form the teachings of the philosopher Confucius or Kong Zi. The belief system revolves around “order” and “conformity” and in the idea that correct behaviour at an individual level forms the basis of an “ordered society”. Confucianism only became a religion with supernatural elements after the death of Confucius when Tang Dynasty Emperors began to promote Confucius as a deity that required sacrifice. Taoism, the beliefs of Taoism are derived from the text Dao De Jing (The Way and Its Power) authored by Lao Zi in the 5th century BC. The beliefs of Taoists revolve around the idea that the “rhythm of social life” should not be interfered with. The ultimate goal in Taoism is to attain immortality, through various methods such as meditation. Chinese Buddhism was evolved from orthodox Buddhism when it first began to appear in China during the 2nd century AD. Indigenous varieties of Buddhism include Zen Buddhism with its unique meditative techniques and Pure Land Buddhism, which focuses on attaining salvation (Soothill). 2. Religious Leaders: The 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso is the spiritual leader of the Chinese Administrative Region of Tibet and of Buddhists around the world. He is by far the most prominent Chinese religious leader, even though he currently lives in exile in India (Stewart). 3. Religious Symbols The Manji is a popular symbol in Chinese Buddhist art, which is used to symbolize Love when facing the left and intelligence when facing the right. The symbol of Yin-Yang is also a prominent symbol in Chinese religion. It is used to depict the two contrarian forces of black and white in the world (Laurinen). Political System and Leaders China is a one party socialist state governed for the last 60 years by the Communist Party of China. The structure of Chinese government is divided into three separate institutions. The most powerful of these is the Standing Committee and Politburo of the Chinese Communist Party headed by the President and Vice-President who at this time are Hu Jintao and Xi Jinping. Secondly the Party Committees at National State level are responsible for appointments and dismissals of Government officials and are answerable only to the Politburo and Standing Committee. The third major institution in the state’s core apparatus is the Central Military Commission, which exercises control over the armed forces (Oksenberg). Economy The Chinese economy is said to be one that is transitioning from a centrally planned command economy into a market driven economy. It is an economy in which, businesses once controlled by the state are increasingly becoming privatized. Although the state still controls many enterprises including industrial, agricultural and property, the percentage share of state ownership is declining annually. China’s economy has grown at approximately 10% annually for the past 30 years and has a GDP of over 5 trillion US$ and approximately 2.6 Trillion US$ in foreign currency reserves (Starr). Currency The Currency of China is the Yuan or the Renminibi. 1 Yuan is equal to 10 Fen. Its current exchange rate with the US$ is 6 Yuan to 1 US$. Exports/Imports China’s exports amounted to $1.194 trillion in 2010. The greatest share in exports is of machinery. The biggest importers of Chinese goods are the U.S.A, Japan, South Korea and Germany. China imported approximately 921.5 billion $ worth of goods in the year 2010. These consisted of oil and other fuels, medical equipment and metal ores. Most of these goods were imported from Japan, The U.S.A Germany and South Korea (China Trade, Imports and Exports). Typical Daily Life for Men, Women and Children Due to a high employment rate of women in China, both men and women are usually at work during the day. Most if not all children spend the day at school (Way of Life). Roles and Education of Men Women and Children The average size of the Chinese family unit has decreased in recent years and increasingly adapted to modernity. Both adult men and women are expected to work for a living and both male and female partners share in domestic chores. The advent of universal of education in China has ensured that all children both male and female attend schools (Tu, Chang). Literacy indicators in China remain among some of the highest in the world according to UNICEF. Popular Foods The most popular foods in china include: Sweet and sour Pork (or chicken), Gong Bao Chicken, Ma Po Tofu, Wontons, Dumplings, Spring Rolls, Chow Mein and Peking Duck (Eight Most Popular Chinese Dishes). Popular Sports The most popular sports in China include badminton, ping pong and Olympic sports such as swimming and gymnastics. In addition Soccer (football) and Basketball are the most popular spectator sports (Chinese Sports). Popular Hobbies Although traditional hobbies such as chess, kite flying, gardening and landscaping remain popular in China (Chinese), modernity has resulted in new hobbies especially among the youth due to popular culture. This includes watching television and singing in karaoke clubs (Xi et al). Clothing The majority of China’s population has adopted typical western dress for men women and children. Designer clothing is a common feature in the Chinese fashion landscape (Chinese). Basic Facial and Hand Gestures The bowing or lowering of the head is meant to demonstrate deference for a professor or an older individual. The interlinking of the smallest fingers of both hands is used to show agreement. The placing of the right hand on the heart is meant to gesture a solemn promise. The placing of the hand on the mouth indicates satisfaction. The clasping of both hands and raising them above one’s head can indicate a “thank you” whereas lowering them at level with one’s chest can mean congratulations (Zhiling, Guanhui). Personal Space Due to the high population density of China, it is not surprising that the Chinese are accustomed to far less personal space than their average Western counterpart. Accidental physical contact, excessive noisiness and a somewhat intrusive nature characterize the Chinese concept of personal space (Personal space, noise). Customs Practiced Daily and on Special Occasions Wedding Customs in China are characterised by 3 stages. This begins with information gathering when the family of the bride or groom gather information on the behaviour, character and financial status of the prospective partners family. This is followed by the customary negotiation of dowry and other such matters and followed by the engagement period. Chinese Funeral customs involve burial. More uniquely, Chinese culture does not believe that an older person should pay respect to one younger than them. In the case of the death of an unmarried son or daughter, the body is not brought home and remains in the funeral parlour. Babies and infants are not accorded funeral rites. Funerals are also characterised by burning incense as well as the sight of guests crawling on their knees towards the coffin to pay their respects. Greeting: the most formal and polite way to greet someone in China is with one’s head slightly bowed. Myths and Superstitions There are several superstitions revolving around brooms in China. It is believed that brooms have a spirit and should never touch the head, nor should someone ever be beaten with a broom as it will bring bad luck. The number 4 is also considered to be highly unlucky in Chinese folklore as are moustaches and beards (Chinese Customs)! Works Cited Chinese customs, superstitions and traditions. The Economic and Commercial Counsellor’s Office of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America, 29 November. 2004. Web. 21 November 2011. Chinese Sports. China Cyber, 15 September. 2003. Web. 21 November 2011. China Trade, Imports and Exports. Economy Watch, 30 June. 2010. Web. 21 November 2011. Dragon Boat Festival 2011. China Highlights, n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Eight Most Popular Chinese Dishes. China Highlights. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Chinese. Every Culture. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Gordon, Raymond. Ethnologue: Languages of the World. 15th Edition. Dallas, Tex.: SIL International. 2005. Web. Laurinen, Peitso. The Symbols of PWS. Peitso Laurinen. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Noll, Paul. History of the Chinese Language. Paul Noll. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Oksenberg, Michel. “China’s Political System: Challenges of the 21st Century.” The China Journal 45 (2001): 21-35. Print. Personal space, noise and being “inquisitive” – Understanding Chinese Culture. Medlock Method. 24 July. 2009. Web. 21 November 2011. Qingming Festival. China Highlights. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Soothill, William. The Three Religions of China. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1951. Web. Starr, John. Understanding China: A Guide to Chinas Culture, Economy, and Political Structure. 3rd Edition. New York, NY: Hill and Wang, 1997. Web. Stewart, Whitney. The 14th Dalai Lama: Spiritual Leader of Tibet. Minneapolis, MN: Lerner Publications Company, 2000. Web. The 15-Day Celebration of Chinese New Year. University of Victoria. 27 February. 1997. Web. 21 November 2011. The Chinese Alphabet. Chinese-Tools. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Tu, Su-Hao, Chang Ying-Hwa. “Women’s and Men’s Gender Role Attitudes In Coastal China and Taiwan.” East Asian Labor Markets Conference at Yonsei University. Seoul, South Korea. 24 February. 2000. Print. China Statistics. UNICEF. 2 March 2010. Web. 21 November 2011. Way of Life. Oracle ThinkQuest. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Chinese Youth In Transition. Ed. Xi, Jieying et al. Hampshire, England: Ashgate, 2006. Print Zhiling, Mu, and Li Guanhui, NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION, School of Comercial and Economic Laws in Gothenburg. n.d. Web. 21 November 2011. Read More