Conflict and Conflict Resolution: Differences Between American and Chinese Culture
ABSTRACT
When two people disagree they need to reach some sort of solution if they want to remain in contact with each other. Humans are social animals and as such we have always had a need to live together in groups. This essay will investigate the differences between Chinese and American attitudes to conflict resolution. First we will look at Chinese culture and at Chinese conflict resolution. The collectivist nature of Chinese culture, the influence of Confucian values and the importance of face will be discussed. Next we will look at American culture and attitudes towards conflict resolution. The importance of the American individualism, the influence of religious values and the historical ideals of liberty will be discussed. Furthermore, this essay will point out the various cross-cultural conflicts and how cultural differences should be taken into account when attempting to resolve them. In conclusion we will note how important mutual respect and understanding is, as well as taking the opportunity to learn from each other’s values and ideals.
Keywords: Culture, Chinese, American, conflicts, resolution
Conflict and Conflict Resolution: Differences Between American and Chinese Culture
Never impose on others what you would not choose for yourself. —Confucius, Analects XV.24 (tr. David Hinton)
‘What you want men to do to you, do to them likewise’ –Jesus, Luke 6:31
CONTENTS
1. Introduction
2. Conflict and conflict resolution in Chinese culture
1. Collectivist culture
2. Confucian values
3. The importance of face
4. The counterculture of Taoism
3. Conflict and conflict resolution in American culture
1. Individualist culture
2. Historical values
3. Christian values
4. The Social Contract and democratic government
4. Cross-cultural communication and conflict resolution
1. Conflict of privacy
2. Conflict of the concept of time
3. Conflict of modesty...