Looking at The Chinese Lifestyle and Norms

Introduction

From the context above, I have decided to talk about China. China is the world's most populated country with a rich tapestry of cultures dating back several millennia. Chinese culture encompasses a variety of practices, such as praying for a boy child and engaging in folk worship, which are considered integral to ancient folk customs. Other cultural elements include the art of Bonsai. Consequently, the Chinese have developed a substantial number of practices stemming from these traditions.

Chinese Lifestyle and Norms

As a researcher and interested partner in Chinese tradition, I have found that the Chinese deeply value and uphold their cultural heritage. Young children in society are taught to continue practicing these traditions, ensuring their transfer from past generations to the present. These cultures embody religious beliefs and are regarded as sacred. Practices like Chinese kung fu serve as a defense mechanism and are a significant cultural element. This martial art is widely recognized and has been popularized through various films, which have gone viral on the internet. The influence of Confucianism is also significant, as it emphasizes respect for rulers and societal hierarchy, with Confucius himself credited for teaching doctrines related to Chinese culture (Zang, 2010).

Cultural Practices at Birth

At the birth of a child in China, several cultural practices are performed, such as praying for a son and the protection of the fetus. This process is continuous and occurs at different stages. The community believes that praying for a newborn can ward off evil spirits. Foetus protection involves offering nutritious meals to the mother, such as meat soup or vegetables, to safeguard her from harm, including miscarriage. Generally, the rites of birth include three mornings and what is known as the "grabbing test," which embodies societal recognition of life and care for pregnant women. This underscores the Chinese culture's focus on caring for its people (Zang, 2010).

Asian Traditions and Festivals

Asia is home to a multitude of traditions, such as Buddhism, dim sum, and origami. Buddhism, for instance, is a religion established many years ago based on the teachings of Gautama Siddhartha, known as Buddha. In China, the Ching Ming festival is a significant cultural event lasting two days, during which people celebrate by spreading colored powders and playing with water balloons. Additionally, festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr are celebrated by Muslims in Asia twice a year, marking the end of Ramadan and involving family celebrations and animal sacrifices (Khairullah & Khairullah, 2012).

Diversity in Chinese Cultural History

Chinese cultural history is rich in diversity and variety, with a civilization that flourished in the arts and sciences. Traditional practices such as painting, pottery, and printing techniques were highly respected globally. Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism have left lasting impressions on Chinese culture, advocating for societal respect, self-emancipation, and environmental stewardship. Buddhism, introduced to China in 68 AD during the Han dynasty, has since become a major religion in Asian countries (Khairullah & Khairullah, 2012).

Influence on Foreign Policy and Education

Chinese cultural values also influence foreign policy, promoting conflict resolution and international diplomacy. Values such as righteousness, courtesy, loyalty, wisdom, and benevolence significantly impact national psychology and social recognition. Traditional education in China is deeply rooted in cultural values, which are crucial for understanding and modernizing educational practices today. A historical materialistic approach can help elucidate the essence of these traditions and facilitate educational modernization (Khairullah & Khairullah, 2012).

Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness

Cultural sensitivity is vital for managers to understand diverse perspectives and empathize with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. This understanding is beneficial for international managers in grasping the nuances of various cultures and their influence on organizational processes. Cultural awareness can aid in developing effective policies for planning and controlling international organizations. Shared cultural values among different nations contribute to the formation of these policies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chinese culture, with its rich history and diverse practices, continues to shape the lives of its people and influence global interactions. Understanding these cultural nuances is essential for fostering international cooperation and mutual respect.

References

• Zang, L. (2010). Chinese Cultural Practices and Beliefs. Beijing: Cultural Heritage Press.
• Khairullah, D. H. Z., & Khairullah, Z. Y. (2012). Cultural Influences on Asian Traditions. Journal of Asian Studies, 21(3), 1-12.