The Fundamental Differences between Chinese and American Modes of Thinking and of Discourse

Abstract In the face of binaries, American scholars and officials will characteristically view them as either/or opposed dualities, such as democracy vs. autocracy, good vs. evil, rational vs. irrational. On that basis, American scholars typically view themselves as democratic and free, but view China as “dominated” and controlled, using the word “totalitarianism” to characterize China. China, on the other hand, tends instead to view the U.S. and China not as opposed binaries but rather simply as different. Under those very different modes of thinking, it has been difficult for the two sides to truly communicate with one another. Generally speaking, they do not confront directly such differences in modes of thinking and endeavor to overcome the gap to try to reach mutual understanding. What we need is for both sides to be aware of such fundamental differences; only then can they rise above the divides to truly communicate and consult with one another. Only if presumptive differences in modes of thinking are recognized and set aside can real and substantive differences be dealt with, and genuine mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence be attained.