Isolation In China
In his defense for the role of China in the world and society, the author reveals China’s success through its path of isolation. Specifically in lines 25-29, the author refers to China’s refusal to be involved in trade with Britain, France, and Holland. As China is “enclosed in the isolation of superiority,” China is independent and does not need their “worthless articles for exchange.” The author discusses the significance of religious tradition and how that can greatly increase a country’s success. Abiding by old tradition solidifies and strengthens the country’s economic and social standing in the world. “China’s greatness was owed to principles of social order over a harmonious whole” The author implies that the social order in China consists
of the superior people in China and the “barbarians” outside of China. The only way these inferior people could be accepted in the eyes of the Chinese was if they accepted the Chinese tradition, of “bearing tribute and performing the kowtow in toke of humble submission.” China implemented traditional values into their relations with others.
of the superior people in China and the “barbarians” outside of China. The only way these inferior people could be accepted in the eyes of the Chinese was if they accepted the Chinese tradition, of “bearing tribute and performing the kowtow in toke of humble submission.” China implemented traditional values into their relations with others.