Friday 1 May 2009

"Globalization" in China

The Globalist have an interesting article looking at the relationship between the Chinese state and "globalisation". It is interesting that the very phrase "globalisation" has such negative political connotations in China.

I am not convinced by a lot of this article but it does raise some interesting points.

“Democracy Is A Good Thing,” [Globalist]

While China has undoubtedly reaped many benefits from the process of globalization, many of its people are still skeptical of the true nature of this market-integrating phenomenon.

In the early half of the 1990s the word "globalization" itself was so politically sensitive that Chinese scholars avoided mentioning it in articles and books.

On a practical level, globalization was long-regarded as synonymous with capitalist development, a fact that explains the previous ideological sensitivities it carried.

3 comments:

Peter B said...

There is no doubt a segment of the population, including some very influential people believe globalization is a net negative for China because it is seen as an extension of "free market capitalism" and western ideology which is at odds with the culture, values and economic sovereignty of China. You can agree or disagree with their perspective but it is a view that needs to be respected and considered in addressing the future development of the country and its international relations,

Under the Lemon Tree said...

Previous history plays an important role in this discussion. Given China's experience with foreign concessions across the country and repeated (at least perceived) ill-treatment by foreigners, the tendency among some Chinese against globalization should be understandable. The best way to change this attitude cannot be to say it is wrong but through repeated positive and fair interaction. If LA or London were owned by the Japanese, French, and Bolivians I would expect American and English citizens to fear a rising foreign involvement.

Rather than railing against the anit-globalization sentiment, it is important to understand why it is so pervasive. Historical and present conditions play into this. As Peter B said, respecting this position will help future engagement in the nation.

China Economist said...

Thanks for the comments. Perhaps there has been some misunderstanding. I agree entirely with Peter. Of course many in China will believe globalisation to be negative. My unease is merely with the article itself.

I happen to beleive a China backlash is very likely and that the Chinese government has a bigger job on its hand than many realise.

This is the reason for posting this article.