Chinese vs. American Political Philosophy
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- čas přidán 16. 05. 2024
- The general political philosophies of China and America, focusing primarily on China.
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0:00 The Basics
2:23 Confucianism
04:24 The CCP
7:46 The Left and the Right
10:27 Linear vs. Lateral Thinking
19:14 War
20:52 Outro
Sources:
The Analects: Confucius
The Art Of War: Sun Tzu
The Governance Of China: Xi Jinping
The Selected Works Of Mao Zedong: Mao Zedong
On China: Henry Kissinger
The American Political Tradition: Richard Hofstadter
China In The 21st Century: Jeffrey Wasserstrom
The Party: Richard McGregor
Culture Hacks: Richard Conrad
Has China Won?: Kishore Mahbubani
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It occurred to me that I should clarify what I meant at the end, saying 'the basic story of China is the story of a country that's kept to itself.' I was feeling pressure to wrap up the video and was probably too brief there.
1) I was referring to the last, say, 2000 years of Chinese history, roughly since China unified under the Qin dynasty.
2) That's a relativistic argument, saying that China has been remarkably nonaggressive considering its size and power throughout history. China has, throughout most of those 2000 years, mostly kept to itself. It has been aggressive on occasion, particularly to countries bordering it, but those instances are rare when comparing China to other great powers. Also, like I said in the video, that might be changing. China might be becoming more aggressive in the 21st century. That's yet to be born out in a hot war, but many argue that we're seeing signs of it. Hopefully that added some clarity and nuance.
I saw many comments taking issue with me saying the CCP is above the law. Most seem to be coming to the conclusion that the law is above the CCP by pointing at cases where members of the CCP are tried by the court system (like when members are tried for corruption). If that's your view, it seems that you're not understanding the concept of rule of law. I made a follow-up video elaborating on that: czcams.com/video/RK5X-tIA_AI/video.html
Also if you're wondering why I didn't cover Legalism in this video, I saw that as being one 'ism' too far for an introductory video. The basic dynamic between Legalists and Confucians was that Legalists tried to push China towards a country governed by law (though this never translated into rule of law, where even the highest political authorities are constrained by law), and the Confucians tried to push China in a direction where elders and leaders ruled via their discretion, not law. Influence from Legalists meant that China had a fairly strong legal tradition from fairly early on, but never rule of law, which is still true to this day. In hindsight, I probably should have cut about a minute of 'linear vs. lateral' and added a little section on Legalism.
- Ryan
The purpose of war is to steal resources or manipulate another group of people into achieving your goals. It is costly and destructive, typically with both sides losing resources and resentment built between the two peoples.
China uses different means to manipulate other groups of people into achieving its goals. In general those manipulations take longer but are far less risky if any one part of them fails.
For example, the belt and road initiative is being used to do several things, increase trade with China, place countries into debt with China forcing their partnership regardless of political shifts, and breakout of containment by American military forces which are placed strategically around China(and match them in case of conflict). The belt and road has suffered multiple rejections and failures, yet is still largely successful.
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I just want to say I also appreciate that this pinned response is from 7 days ago even if the video was posted months ago.
"Kept to itself" is a euphemism for being at constant conflict within, subjugating and exterminating it's own population.
Zhong (Middle) Guo (Country) = Zhong Guo is definitively accurate.
Chinese aggression is different than more traditional aggression. most dynasties would threaten another country and they would pay tribute to China. a couple of dynasties even considered themselves as rulers of the world, in which in their eyes if something was on their official maps then they owned it, only allowing others to govern the regions in their stead should they remain prosperous. if the tribute was smaller than they would like they would send their armies and punish the nation by overthrowing it and letting someone else rule it. this didn't happen too much as the nations understood what would happen if they didn't offer enough tribute, and if they forgot they would be reminded by an emissary from China. in other words China has a history of not respecting other's autonomy, while they tended to not conquer (relative to the west of course).
@@yamhweeyeo3089 The host’s spelling of China in Pinyin is certainly correct, i.e. Zhong Guo. But his pronunciation of it is just as certainly wrong. As his elaboration above alluded to, the correct pronunciation more closely approximates ‘jong’ rather than ‘chung’ where the j/ch should be an UNaccentuated sound. I’m assuming yours is not a case of misreading (of what he wrote) in which case I do encourage you to familiarise Pinyin pronunciation as it was designed precisely to enable non Mandarin native speakers to learn the modern standard pronunciation of China’s national language.
Before China created the Pinyin system of pronunciation, westerners learnt Mandarin using the Wade-Giles system of pronunciation. In that system, China’s name in Mandarin would be correctly written as “chung guo” whereas Chapman’s pronunciation in that same system would effectively become “ch’ung guo” (i.e. Chapman’s pronunciation accentuated the consonant of the first word, which is incorrect). Hope this explanation using Wade-Giles system more clearly points out where Chapman’s pronunciation is in error.
Don't be embarrassed to promote yourself! You're awesome (researched, well spoken, without being overly emotional) The world needs more people like you!
@loudnsounds and i think what you agree with is pro-china propaganda!! you can legit throw that word around for anything that disagrees with you lol
@loudnsounds dogmatic American textbooks like “the art of war” right?
@loudnsounds You have comprehension issues. He never characterized CCP as conservative. He mentioned that CCP has both the conservative and progressive. But for the CCP socialism is conservative whereas anything that shifts from that is progressive which is the direct opposite of American thinking.
@@kattttt9585 this is why I kinda love the video, because the people who are on both "sides" will think the video's opinion is on the other side. Brilliant work
@@jimmerskrimmerfriddet3246
I have a huge text I have yet to read it.
I loved the maps.
Such a well-made video. Its rare to see a Westerner who actually tries to understand the Chinese and their way of thinking, and not just blindly criticize and regard them as a threat. The world would be a much better place if people are more educated and more understanding to different cultures and values.
Thanks for putting in the time to research about China.
Very informative, I have a fresh, broader perspective on my own culture.
I’m making my own videos about China from the perspective of someone who came from Hong Kong.
And wish to share it with you in the hope of starting a meaningful dialogue. (I will send you the link, it’s going to be from a different Google account)
P.S. I watch all your other videos, no one that’s they are all very well researched
“The world would be a much better place if people are more educated and more understanding to different cultures and values.”
The number of laws a nation has is inversely proportional to the understanding that nation has for “different cultures and values.”
The world will be a better place, inevitably. The forces of oppression and ignorance in the West are only as powerful as their veil of ignorance is free of being pierced. Every little bit helps, and the Internet has proven to make the obliteration of those prejudice-fueled barriers an inevitably; as much as it's made it possible for hatred and ignorance to cultivate and spread in isolated echo chambers, it has, more importantly, enabled the gradual and accelerating evaporation of most of the global echo chamber(s), albeit at a pace that's generational in nature. Nonetheless, barring a successful resurgence and rise to power of fascism in the Western core, again, that would be capable of dismantling global internet infrastructure, it'll only take as long as it takes for the unhelpably ignorant to die of old age and their progeny grow up in a world with acceleratingly abundant wisdom their forebears were inoculated and propagandized against. Ironically made inevitable by the sheer capitalistic profitability of the Internet, functionally guaranteeing conservative-capitalist impotence.
lol The world would be a much better place if people are more educated and more understanding to different cultures and values.
tell that to the fookin chinese. but we should stop talkin with those mainland midgets and cut them off entirely from new technologies.
yeah but then how would the political elite of my country trick me into hating you for no actual real reason!?
I am a Chinese who both absorb from not only east but west, I read the ancient classics of both in China and West. Your observation is so detailed and you unveil the nuances between China and USA, thank you for making this video.
你研究的是哪类中国历史？ 他说错了你还认可？ 一定是假账号。
I absolutely love your videos. They're informative and lead to proper understanding of things. The kind of understanding that can be effectively applied if in the hands of the right person.
This actually helps contextualize another video I watched recently and gives a much deeper understanding of it, which can be used in used in future discussions on the subject.
Thank you!
Really great content. We have an old saying here in China "当局者迷，旁观者清" can be loosely translated to "the chess player cannot see the whole view, while the bystanders are capable of having a better take". Sometimes we need other perspectives from people from different cultures and political atmospheres, it helps us grow!
That’s a really admirable mindset.
Roy Zed. Reminds of this quote: "Those involved are confused; outsiders see it clearly". BTW, Chinese play Go.
@@fredtan1506 Probably the same one. I just loosly translated that one. btw I really don't know why "围棋" is translated to "Go".
@@royzed2039 maybe because of Japanese?
@@alexdeng2418 Probably because he is using a genericl term for chess/qi in Chinese.
When you say Chess in English, it is by default Western Chess. In Chinese, Qi has no such default and remains a generic term.
Chinese chess is known as XiangQi or "elephant chess".
Western Chess is called GuoJiXiangQi or "international elephant chess".
What is called Go in Japan and West is known in China as WeiQi or "surrounding chess"
To understand Chinese politics you need to understand "Socialism with Chinese characteristics" So what are the CHINESE characteristics to socialism?
To put it simply, it's a combination of Confucianism and Legalism (surprised the video didn't even mention Legalism, which is just as important to Chinese politics as Confucianism)
Confucianism relies on people knowing their place to attain social harmony, but of course that is not always the case, So Legalism uses the Law to MAINTAIN social harmony, so the aim is the same as Confucianism, but the method is different.
Legalism is realist thinking, Confucianism is Idealist thinking
Mao's social campaigns often uses Legalism to attack Confucianism. Fun fact, Mao is a great admirer of Qin Shihuang, the first Emperor of China that instituted Legalism to China in 221 BC
Although the description about Deng's idea of "crossing the river by feeling the stones" is well explained, but it does NOT explain the entire implications of it. Due to the ambiguity of Deng Xiaoping on Laws rules and pretty much everything, has led to massive problems of corruption and nepotism. Where unwritten rules or unspoken laws might be prioritized over actual laws.
Xi Jinping, on the other hand hates these unwritten and unspoken rule and laws, If he wants to extend his terms, he does not do what Deng did, which is to pull the strings behind the screen and PRETEND not to be in power, Xi could easily done that without touching anything, HOWEVER, that would continue the cycle of nepotism and corruption.
Some say that Xi is power hungry for doing it, but I beg to differ, Xi is not Mao and never will even if he tries, Mao can turn on the Party, but Xi is no where near as powerful, he is a product of the Party, So what he does MUST have the general blessing of the Party, and the way I see it is that his term extensions were agreed upon by the Party to fix the problems the Party and the country might have.
To extensively reform China, and the Largest political party in the world is no easy task, and 10 years is nowhere near enough.
So, my prediction is, the before Xi Jinping retires, he will institute a more rule based power transition, due to his disdain about unwritten rules and retired Party elders engaging in nepotism.
Very good observation. I totally agree with you.
Well done
Very good summary.
profoundly observed.
Is the use of “elders” intentional? 🐸
Very much appreciating your content Ryan. Incredibly informative and thought provoking. Looking forward to more to come!
What a delightful take on various subjects without obvious bias. I look forward to viewing all of your videos.
As someone who teaches Chinese language, I find the lateral thinking part is reflected in the language itself. Chinese languages (regardless of regional varieties) rely heavily on context. In European languages, a verb as simple as it is, can carry a lot of information. For example, "to go" is the infinitive form, it only bears the semantic meaning. No other information can be extracted from it. But when you conjugate it, like "goes" you instantly know when this action happens (present), how many people are doing the action (only one and it has to be the third person). English is one of the least "flavourful" ones, comparing to Spanish, French, Greek, Portuguese, Russian, German etc. If you add Latin to that mix it is even crazier. But in Chinese languages, a verb is a verb. No tense, no number, no subject-verb agreement. If you ask how do you know when the action happens? You will get this answer "depends on the context." "How do you know whether it's a he or a she?" "Well, from the context, duh?" "How do you know that the person means 'to cause' and not 'faeces'?" "Again, from the context! Why would faeces suddenly appear in a sentence about good news and excited?"
Kidding aside, it is very true that there isn't any inherent dualism or dichotomy in Chinese culture. Things are never either back or white. This extends to the our inventions. Why invent so many different knives when you can have one that does everything? Why invent so many pots and pans when a wok can do all those things just fine? Why have a dessert fork, dining fork, salad fork, pitchfork when you can have a pair of chopsticks? Because in the end, if you only allowed to choose a wok or a pan, wok can always accomplish more. When asked is a wok a pan or a pot? The answer is always "it depends."
Very true
Simply wonderful
I once bought a book which explains chinese writing symbols and was amused and fascinated. Like one tree is wood, three trees is forest. The funniest of all is this character which consists of a house and three women. One house one women is harmony. One house three women is chaos. And Chinese usually think in terms of surroundings. Good and bad is not a straight line.
Beautifully worded, thank you
The dualism of the Western world, which simply divides the world into democratic and undemocratic, may be largely influenced by Christianity, because in the worldview described by monotheism, the world is a dualism between God and Satan. Due to the influence of monotheism, Western countries regard the democratic system as a For a gospel, they think they have an obligation to spread the gospel of democracy. In their eyes, China is so strange. Basically, it is equivalent to a heretic. In their eyes, even if China is successful now, it is not worth mentioning that a heretic is a heretic. Unless China adopts the same system as them
As Chinese, I’m amazed by the accuracy, objectivity, and depth of this video. Hope can see more videos like this.
me too
Thank you so much for your viewpoint! I'm from the US and admire much about your country.
我看看
一点也不准确好么，一堆错误，你认为它准确客观只能证明你在对中国文化的理解上也是个二把刀。左派右派定义的混淆，左就是progressive,右就是 conservative，这是词源上注定的，你想混合地描述，可以，但只能针对一个群体在特定问题上的态度而且要给context，而不能做整体性的概括，否则都不叫人类能理解的话了，就像说红是墨色的而黑是赤色的一样，您这搞文学创作呢？还有对把所有中国的思维元素都归在儒家里，甚至儒家对此的理念完全相反，比如儒家是非常线性且不灵活的，非线性的整体观和灵活性这俩实际上来源于道家，inaggrassive也不是儒家的，儒家讲究入世，大有为，aggrassive到头了好么，兼爱非攻那是墨家的。另外拿孙子兵法一个纯纯的方法论去反过头去阐释世界观也是没谁的
@@chenyangge7451 我觉得你说的很有道理，让我意识到我在这方面的了解非常浅薄，谢谢你的指正。我评论的初衷和我比较喜欢这个视频的点是在于博主有尝试跳出大部分视频里那种西方普遍的固有视角，从一个相对来说更客观的角度思考中国文化和体制。我觉得能做到这一点已经是难得了，这样的视频也能抛砖引玉让更多人从不一样的视角来看这个问题，我觉得难能可贵。关于中国文化这方面的错误，我觉得非常惭愧，说明了我的知识储备和理解深度的欠缺，今后会慢慢补充并加以注意。谢谢！
Just discovered Ryan Chapman and I thoroughly enjoy both his content and his delivery style. His attempt to be objective and open minded is a killer method for those of us who long to avoid the slanted agendas being broadcasted today. Awesome job Ryan!
What an excellent video....especially the linear and lateral thinking explanation. The Chess vs Go comparison. The extractions from "The art of War"
You truly have insight.
British/Australian here who spent nearly 30 years living in Asia, nearly 20 of those in China. Love your channel; always learning something new. Unfortunately, due to ill health, I'm retired and living on a disability pension, otherwise I would happily support you on patreon. Keep up the great work and if I'm ever in a position to donate to a channel, yours will be the first 👍
我是一个中国人，我希望您能够保持健康。
Brilliant content. It's so rare to find a Westerner acknowledging the fundamental but equally valuable differences between US and Chinese political thinking. Bravo!
American exceptionalism: arrogance and ignorance. And 800 military bases in 120 countries.
@@wnklee6878 fools with guns is a bad combination for all of us.
@@tegusentertainment8021 But it has worked well. America obeys only one law: the law of the jungle.
@@wnklee6878 America those know what they're doing as far as monopolizing violence and military superiority. Except, China seems to knows America better than we do while we know nothing of China.
@@tegusentertainment8021 What do Americans know about real America? czcams.com/video/guQw3nSkXMY/video.html
Really great video. I appreciate how much research you put into your content and how hard it seems like you're trying to come at things from a balanced/neutral perspective.
I really enjoyed this video! Great explanation and delivery- you do a good job of making a complex topic very easily palatable.
Interesting take. Though I am not usually a fan of general statements of cultural characteristics like "Americans are vertical thinkers" or "Chinese are lateral thinkers," I think in this case there's a certain truth to this observation, overly simplistic as it may be. I would argue that this is less an artifact of some essential cultural difference but rather the immediate consequence of two very different political systems. In two-party electoral systems like the United States, political actors must frame their policies and platform IN OPPOSITION to those of other political actors. This invites a sort of cycle where confrontational politics make their way into confrontational media, and so on. Hence, American political strategy is simple and straightforward precisely because of the need to make it easily digestible and discernable. On the other hand, one-party rule in China has meant that the CPC is the only legitimate authority in China. To get anything done, one must go through the party. This is not to say that political discussions do not occur in China, but rather that they take place in the context of party rule. Without the need to pander to voters, policymakers are free to design more elaborate, flexible, and contextual strategies and carry them out over much longer periods.
Another thing that should be emphasized is the internal governance mechanisms of the party. This is a massive topic deserving a video of its own but something like party discipline and unity (a huge priority of the current administration) which means that party members are not so much above the law but rather subject to a different set of (often stricter) rules of behavior.
Exactly !!! Too often the corruption crackdown by Xi Jing Ping has been painted as political witchhunt by western media. Hopefully someone here can work with Ryan to obtain enough material to debunk this notion.
I don't know how many people can get your points - you seemed to have majored in political science? Or extremely well-read, researched, on government and politics.
Thanks for sharing the extremely insightful thoughts -
"but rather subject to a different set of (often stricter) rules of behavior" very true. Party members get punished twice, one by the law, one by the Party rule.
I agree that western democracies are more open while policy disagreements in China are handled in private. Reminds me of parents arguing in front of children. There are times that sensitive discussions should be handled in private to avoid a new media circus which can be counter productive.
I heard from someone that used to live in China, that if you speak out against the government, they black bag you and you disappear. Dude said he saw it first hand in a subway.
This is the first time that I have really looked into Chinese philosophy and I am blown away and intrigued by the differences. Thank you Ryan.
Hi Graeme if you liked this I think you'd love my channel where I make vlogs and newsy vids straight from China (I'm Canadian).
In the past 2 days, I have watched more than 10 of your videos, including the longer one.
I just want to appreciate you and your efforts in preparing these excellent resources.
Thank you, Ryan.
So lucky to have found this page. Your explanation of lateral vs linear thinking was really fascinating to think about.
This was very well researched and presented. I always wondered about China's political philosophy but most sources are very Anti Chinese so I am happy to find someone who can explain it in a more Neutral way.
The entire left, which makes up almost the entirety of media, is very pro China.
It's almost like old school reporting
China collapsing demographically and economically and politically in one decade. Is anyone seeing it coming? I think the CCP does. A cornered cat can make strange leaps...
Try reading some of Ray Dalio's books - he has had tons of experience with top Chinese leaders. And those experiences get mentioned as you read the books.
Mostly though, it boils down to "Long term oriented, committed to country's future over over other goals. Sensible with respect to the actual realities they are facing."
Being aligned on "what benefits the country" is not a bad position for government. Even if that view is obviously limited by the comprehension of the leaders.
same in China
Really impressed with this foray into understanding the differences. I observe these gaps in understanding all the time, unfortunately even amongst most of my foreign policy peers who only frame society and history in a linear/vertical way.
meh... I didnt like his hand-wavey attack on dengism. He basically just ignored all existing chinese leftist theory to say "yeah theyre just capitalist lol"
@@RockPile_ I don't understand your comment. Deng expresses the ultimate in Chinese pragmatism which is the point of Chandler's presentation. "I don't care what colour the cat is as long as it catches mice". Maoism failed. In China human nature which drives capitalism is no longer suppressed but given wide range in the interest of prosperity and social harmony as long as everyone respects the authority and guidance of the CPP. Allowing people to get rich by their own efforts and to enjoy the rewards so generated is the essence of enlightened and effective governance.
Joshua, I understand exactly what you mean, and have heard many Westerners do such a poor job of introducing China and Chinese "thinking" I was prepared for one more on that long list of failures. I thought he did the best "beginner" overview for the lay person, with respect for all, I may have ever listened to. Best wishes for your health and prosperity. Pat
How does it feel to work for the modern day Gestapo against your homeland?
@@ericyendall3292 I wouldn't say Maoism failed, just it's not immediately applicable. It is hard to argue against Maoism's effectiveness in unifying a broken country with very few resources. It's not very good at growth though.
Out of all your videos so far, I have found this one to be the most educational.
This is a very interesting, insightful and helpful video. Thanks and keep up the good work.
Brilliant. Finally some quality intellectual content. Doesn’t dumb anything down to an absurd level and makes information accessible with clear and precise definitions and examples.
If you are the one who wrote the script then truly you are someone who is on such a level that many scholars and politicians would respect.
Making such a complex topic into a 20 minute video essay with high level commentary. Amazing.
Not even going to mention the charisma of a man that does not try to speak bs or to play on emotion. These days it’s rare to see in any media.
CCP = The Emperor and the imperial court ?
Really?
I generally learn more about a topic in a 20-minute video from Ryan Chapman than I've known in my prior 71 years. This is especially true for topics like China, where I didn't know much to begin with, but also for topics like liberalism, where I thought I knew a lot.
@Kian Hong Chua ?
all your videos are so clear and informative. thank you!
Love your work. Always well researched and intelligent stuff
You wanna know if you found a good person making video essays about controversial/divisive topics?
they put in disclaimers, they tell you flaws, they tell you to take things with a grain of salt.
they are intellectually honest, like this guy.
He is very very honest. I really like him too. He clearly has that journalistic integrity thing that the media currently lacks.
Absolutely. Fortunately/Unfortunately for those who took the effort to understand war, money & reality from works like Sun Wu's Art of War, Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations & Carl Sagan's Vision of Humanity, s/he/they will realise there exist many who will seek profits/opportunities from this crisis. This may explain why many elites/experts from states like US, China, EU, India, UK, Russia, AU, Brazil, etc. groups like IMF, WHO, UNP, RSF, ICC, WFP, TSB, POG, etc. & firms like Apple, Tencent, Samsung, Nestle, Loreal, Tata, Sony, Siemens, etc. are already making their moves in the cyber/shadow space.
As a southeast Asian Chinese who's studied in the West, your explanation and arguments are succinct and clear. You've just earned my sub. Looking forward to more!
This is just what I've been looking for. Thank you for citing all of those books. Wonderful job
Your content is amazing! looking forward to warching every video of yours. Very instructive! Thank you!
I am Chinese. I have to say your explanation of China, in general terms, is pretty good. Yep, the US vs China is kind of binary thinking vs spectrum thinking. You did a good job to help different cultures to understand each other better so we all can get along. Thank you.
it's not pretty good, it's deep, refreshing and insightful. I have to say we need more people like him on the planet, if people like Ryan can be the US president, the Chinese Chairman and other political leaders at the same time, world peace and prosperity will be achieved. I have to say this is the first time I feel like I fell in love with a person because of his wisdom and horizon.
@@user-kf7ul3js1c how are you guys on CZcams? Isn’t CZcams banned in china?
@@starkiller578 Firstly, there are large population of Chinese people and offspring that live oversea. People in China can access things like Google and CZcams with VPN, which is theoretically not allowed, but practically never banned and not very difficult to get.
@@starkiller578 thanks for your concern, actually there are a lot of Chinese citizens using VPN to watch CZcams like me, although it is quite illegally, the police have no interest in arresting people for that kind of reasons (flexible laws again) As long as you don't spread political sensitive message and porn or something illegal inside the GFW
In America we have flexible laws too. That’s the one thing I didn’t get about this video. What is Unitary Executive Theory (which brings a great deal of power to the executive when we know America’s founders were worried about the problems inherent in monarchy) if not a flexible interpretation of the constitution because of a new political context? To give a better example, we also outlaw pirating in America (downloading shows and movies and music outside of proper channels) but it’s not something the police look into. And the idea that presidents can be held accountable just because they’re in theory a private citizen doesn’t hold out in practice. Basically, I think the video maker compared how China appears to be in practice to how America is supposed to be in theory, especially when it comes to the law subject. The discussion on lateral thinking and most other points were great, though I can’t debunk half of them bc I’m not a China expert or Chinese.
This is probably my favorite social/political commentary channel because Ryan is so even-keeled, careful, and yet thorough to a good extent given his video durations.
I have been devouring your videos non stop since I stumbled across this channel yesterday.
Thank you very much for all the great videos that you've made and I've learned A LOT from; keep up the great work, educator!
I'm seriously so impressed with your content. You blow me away every time. Bless you for doing the research and teaching so effectively. I will definitely share this wherever I can.
Well done and insightful! Regarding the contrast of the people's views on authority in China and United States, I remember a Chinese philosopher (Dongyue Wang) said, that's due to the historical formation of societies. Chinese society is a very old one, which regarded authority as necessary to unite and organise people from different tribes and backgrounds to work together for public good, such as to combat natural disasters in ancient times (i.e. the flood of Huanghe river), so the Chinese society has been organised by the 'rule of human' (secular origin); whereas the people in United States see authority as repressive and self-interested, as the European settlers brought their trauma from their home countries where they were deprived and persecuted, so they treat authority with distrust, and prefer to be ruled by something 'transcending' human (judged by god)--'rule of law' (of religious origin). Which also explains the differences in modern societies.
I’d like to know the relationship between the Confucianism authoritarian philosophy with Plato’s Benevolent Philosopher King. Sounds extremely similar
In the early days of the founding of the American, the president had to obtain the support of various state consortia, otherwise Washington could not even raise military funds for the War of Independence, and the power structure of the American formed a form of local governments balancing the central government.On the contrary, China has always been led by a central government (emperor) that continuously expanded to the surrounding areas, in order to unite the ruled ethnic groups and classes, China has formed a system where the central government has delegated power to various local governments to manage the country, and local governments must be responsible for the central government.
@@marvinwilliams7938 I’m not sure if there are any potential causal relationships of the two schools of thoughts developing, as opposed to parallel similarities if that’s what you’re wondering. As from my awareness of broader history (bits covering the last 3 millenia or so) the two regions would’ve -more likely traded in goods rather than thoughts via the decentralized Silk Routes- since 114 BCE
Correction: I rechecked from public knowledge, and it seems that there were thought exchanges too, but it would’ve gone through various translations and local appropriations to retain information integrity and it’s unclear (at least from my quick skim of the summary) to which region & direction of the route the thoughts was shared
But in any case Confucius’ era was around 500 BCE, and Plato’s from around 400 BCE. So both predates the formation of the trade relations
The similarities might be a convergence thing that developed independently correlated by political relevance and sociopolitical resonance with the idea, as the growing and/or predominant structure of governance at the time was monarchical
Good video and nice, calming voice. Very often I go to sleep listening to you. Thank you for your work and time!
Listening to Shawn Ryan discuss China and then going through your series of videos contrasting the two societies gives one much to consider. Thanks for putting this out!
Ryan, this was a real good, unbiased, examination and comparison of two conflicting political philosophy without saying one is more correct than the other. i really liked your analogy between chess and gungho when comparing lateral and linear thinking. amazing video!!
I definitely would love to see more content from you. This, for me, is one of the better channels to expand or even explain certain topics in a way that is more concise than my own observations.
Seriously very well explained. I love the diversity of the sources and the manner of explanation. Thanks and keep these videos coming!
Thank you for your videos from which I learn a lot. It seems to me that you are always trying to explain things objectively and not according to your possible position, which is formidable, thank you again
I never heard of this term but as a mainland Chinese I have to say the "lateral thinking" thing is spot on. I grew up with my dad always saying things like "the only thing certain is uncertainty". Chinese people deal so much with flexibility and human relations, thats probably why we have a hard time accepting religion, democracy or so called "universal values". I guess the linear way of thinking is great for science or specific study, lateral thinking is good for handling complex human relations, morality etc which are difficult to be solved by law.
Didnt singapore and taiwan have democracy too?
@@kekbin1697 Not sure about singapore for Taiwan yes, they had their first election in 1996. I'm generally pro-democracy, I'm just saying between "linear thinking" and "lateral thinking" there should be more mutual understanding of each other, not like one system is completely superior or the other is pure evil that kind of statement.
Plenty of us linear westerners rejected religion as well. I still hold out hope for democracy but its also starting to seem illusory as well, and having the same ultimate purpose of placating and controlling the masses, an understandable goal for rulers, but not governors in a representative system…
@@schyllic imo there's no absolute truth to any physical and conceptual entities in this universe, and pretty much all man-made concepts are subject to manipulations. To be specific, I believe this current version of "democracy" proclaimed by the west is a perfect tool to reposition the people in positions of power in the "backstage", as opposed to the "front stage" like kings, queens, and others in the old days. If you think about it, this new stage is by far better at resolving the conflict of interest between the powerful and the weak, for the powerful of course. Plus if you read the entire history of Bourgeois revolution(ik ik people from the bourgeois sphere doesn't agree with this concept, for the very reason you stated in your comment actually) this becomes very clear.
The word democracy basically means an election system, it is not necessary to do any good for a community/country, somehow this word got translated into Chinese as 民主, meaning people is the master, government's function is to serving the people, however look at the current election system in the west, did it work in such a way?
Therefore nowadays when people bring up this word Democracy, many Chinese find it revolting. 😂
I think this channel is so important and hope it gets the popularity it deserves. Just in this video I learned so much and it makes me excited to learn more. Thank you for covering all these ‘taboo’ topics in a way that allows for the viewer to think for themselves. It is rarer and rarer to find information like this online.
Super insightful. Thank you for putting this out.
Very helpful, particularly the lateral-vs.-linear. Thanks.
I have to thank you for, what seems to me, a wonderfully researched and balanced video.
Trying to explain a topic of such immense complexity in such a short time is a feat in itself but having explained the concepts with so many illustrative and comprehensible manner is incredible. I have nothing but praise.
Just a thought that I had. I seems to me that America is still being propelled by the enlightenment spirit of linear rationality. This may not be surprising as the country was founded on enlightenment ideals through the writings of Montesquieu, Locke and the founding fathers. (I am personally very drawn to the enlightenment ideal, it's very attractive and holy.)
But the post-enlightenment thinking appears to have taken a turn, with romanticism and the Hegelian dialectic, seemingly sidelining strict rationality or logic as being subjected to the process of time and rendered insignifican. (This might be a vast generalisation and an unsophisticated manner of describing Hegal thought) Conincidentally, traditional Chinese thought had never had such strong emphasis on logic and strict rationality but rather on motion or movement. (perhaps analogous to Heraclitus, to a certain extent) So it would seem that Chinese political thinking coheres to a certain extent with post-enlightenment view.
I would also say that the doctrinal basis of the US being rooted in enlightenment might face more challenges moving forward. (This is not to say China doesn't have significant issues, I do think the inconsistancy is much more severe under the Chinese system)
Apologise for the long comment. A very rough and loose record of my thoughts whilst watching the video. No doubt very underdeveloped and problematic. I thank you again for your work in the video.
A very insightful and humble post!
Here is the 50 cent army ranking you for your propaganda. Lol
@@felpswa123 thank you for your kind words!
@@depreciatingasset I must have not understood what you mean. Are you saying that my post is 50 cent army post?
What makes you say so? Which part of my comment strikes you as such? I would be delighted to know! Thanks!
@@MEGALEHANE I don't think it's balanced or thoughtful. Trying to frame the conversation as cultural differences is misdirection and subversion. I detailed why in a separate comment. Two major points is that first those same Chinese with the same culture seek the western countries but the opposite is not true. Second point, is that in the liberal democracies, you can be Chinese with lateral thinking and all cultural aspects and if you succeed, you'll become the dominant way of thinking and everybody will incorporate your ideas. Also the US or western liberalism isn't a judeochristian thinking. A judeochristian thinking with its ideal the abrahamic God is very much a feudal despotic Roman/ Egyptian/Mesopotamia version. The puritans, catholics evangelicals are example of Christian thinking. Western liberal democracy is a revolution on chrsitianity.
So basically any framing of the China affair as a cultural difference is falling for CCP lines which are just another despotic tyranny regime with Chinese characteristics, much like Iran is tyranny with Islamic characteristics, Venezuela is tyranny with communist or militaristic characteristics.
I think k the CCP is using Sun Tzu on the free world. Trying to fight and win with all other methods than conflict. But we are in a war
As a Chinese, living in US for many years, I have to say that this is the best video I have ever seen comparing the culture between Chinese and western
not true lol
@@maimunkatabg The comment states, "-the best video I have ever seen-". If you don't know all the video's they have watched then you are incapable of determining the statements accuracy.
@@chronicle8080 Nobody asked.
@@rip_conf6186 Neither did I for yours, see how stupid and endless your response is. He said something dumb so I pointed it out pretty respectfully.
definitely, as a Chinese still in China, agree.
Thank you for this informative, important and timely video. Everyone should watch this 😊
Thanks Ryan - your videos are super informative and balanced - much needed
I really like your stripped down analysis of essential concepts. I've been struggling to make the Chinese case to Americans, and you handed me all tools and analogies. Excellent work. Solid writing.
Ryan, I only came upon your channel recently and it already became my favorite content on youtube. You really have a deep and balanced understanding of all the topic matters, and you explain in a clear manner. Well-done, please keep it up. I will support it going forward.
i found your videos today and I'm enjoying them. they seem well balanced and insightful. thanks.
I really like the way you condense incredibly broad topics into a clear presentation of the main points. Comparing and contrasting American and Chinese thought could easily take decades to understand thoroughly, but your explanation gives a comprehensible view in under a half hour. It is a great starting point to be able to allow discussion and exploration of points of view between people who may think they disagree. Thank you for this potential foundation for a rebuild of decent and civil society.
Please keep doing what you do, Ryan. Your sober analysis of typically contentious topics is so refreshing.
Thank you for creating this !
Thank you for a thoughtful and illuminating video. I am so happy to have found your channel, you open my mind.
I’ve always been interested in other cultures and this was excellent and informative. I’m not good at articulating others content but I enjoy watching your videos. You’re calm and concise
i’m an american undergraduate student studying political science, with a particular concentration on national security. after learning about clausewitz and sun tzu, about disputes in the south china sea and re-engineering the supply chain, about the strategies of biden versus xi- i have not seen a more important video than this one here. u present such critical and messy information so clearly and with nuance, while making it accessible and engaging. i still have a lot to learn, but i’m grateful to say that i wish i watched this video sooner, i’m glad i watched it now, and i can’t wait to watch it again and connect it to what i’ll continue to learn. thank you ryan!!!
i'm a Chinese in Beijing. and has been a designer for years. YUP. generally speaking, the West still don't understand China well. in short China is not communist country like USSR. China is a combination of socialism and captilism right now. basically Chinese governments have found a new way to run a country. in very short is: first the top leader Should has great experience to manager from the poorest village to biggest province,
which is completely different from the democracy world.
And the second difference is China would test a new policy in a city. if it works. spread to entire country.
so when it test in a city. you can understand it is definitely a democracal policy. when it spread to entire country is kind of like an authority.
Your education isn't working if you think this video is even remotely informative
@@albiewitz2686 I beg to differ. It's quality work with no bias. Certainly better than either western or Chinese media.
That entire sectionon Marxism/the CPC (whose initialism this guy couldn't even spell correctly, proving his incompetence when it comes to discussing the subject) is just vapid nonsense. It's clear this guy never read any socialist theory in his life and never bothered researching the basics of Chinese politics.
He missed the main point. Chinese people are no different than europeans or americans. The problem is they're exposed to only one political enviroment which warps their minds into a lateral way of thinking. China is doomed to fail unless rule of law and democracy is achieved.
This was the first video of yours that I’ve seen and I really enjoyed it. Excited to look into your other videos and see what you come out with in the future!
Excellent observations and balanced viewpoints. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this topic.
Your channel is one of a kind. The algorithm stuff as you requested is the least i can do. Looking forward to your next video!
Terrific overview. I've been interested and have studied China for the last 10 years and was really impressed how you were able to get it so right given you've never spent any time at all there. Keep up the great work with everything you're doing, I truly love your channel.
Thank you for the hard work you put into making your videos Ryan, they’re always thought provoking and eye opening
My placeholder comment! Keep up the good work!
This seems to be a pretty fair unbiased presentation, which is difficult to come across.
It's nice to know that there are people in the US curious about China and actually going through great length doing all that research.
The points are solid.
I am literally amazed by the knowledge you had to acquire to back all this up.
I'd very much like to see your chanel grow.
Dear Mr. Ryan Chapman,
I want all viewers to know I find Ryan's videos to be very accurate and inciteful easy viewing. Although he may lack actual experience in China with real life Confucian upbringing, he clearly made it up by reading many impartial books and documentaries. I am a 64 years old, 4th generation Singaporean living in Malaysia who is totally English educated, but brought up in a confucian and taoism background.
i find his views refreshing, fair and rather accurate depiction between China and US. I do recommend American's and Chinese to follow your channel.
Normally I do not correct other's grammar, but I will do so respectfully here.
Instead of "...he clearly made it up by reading..."
I think you mean to say "he clearly _makes up for it_ by reading..."
I mention it only because the two phrases mean wildly different things and I would guess you'd like to know that.
Also, I say this with respect knowing that you almost certainly speak more languages than my only one.
And of course insightful rather than inciteful.
@@KayAteChef Haha...good catch.
Yeah, I contemplated mentioning it, but I didn't wanna go full grammar nazi right off the bat.
@@joeroscoe3708 We tag team it.
Joe and Kay missed your point ...
So impressive and comprehensive!!! Thanks a lot!
This is the first time that I have heard of the concept of lateral thinking. Much appreciated, now I have an interesting subject to delve into.
The origin of the Chinese word "美國” seems to have come from the word "亚美理驾" (ya mei li jia) which is the Chinese language pronunciation of "America", which was later shortened to "美國”. In translated names like these, the usage of these characters is not literal, but instead only for the sound they make. (I am a native Chinese speaker)
Yes, and maybe someone needs to point out that the Chinese country names are always positive, if possible, like "virtue country" (Germany), "hero country" (United Kingdom), "law country" (France), etc.
@@Biberbro well, if you translate the names by what they mean that's what you'll get, but most of them isn't translated to Chinese in this way, they simply find a Chinese character which sounds like the first bit of the English name and add "guo" which means nation. For example, Chinese for UK is 英国 （ pronounced as "in guo" , the first character "英” sounds like "En" for "England" ( That's why when some Chinese kids are studying geography they don't get it right, because sometimes they think UK = England, which is not true.)
Exactly! I am puzzled whenever I see people interpreting 美國 as "beautiful country"...
@@xuepenggao1301 Of course, but they generally choose such syllables which are vaguely positive or at least neutral. E.g., "Ying" could be shadow, baby, husk etc., but they went for "hero".
Wrong, 美國 is actually a short form of 美利堅合眾國 (United States of America). It's literally written in Wikipedia, anyone can check that out.
Terrific! I’ve been in China many times, spending about a year there in the aggregate, and know many Chinese people from many walks of life, many quite educated. For someone who’s not a China expert, acknowledging the generalizations, you nailed it. Love your channel. I think your research and presentations are exceptional.
This guy is more of a China experts than all the so-called “China experts”
@@LSC69 True, the so called "China experts" are just arguing with each other, instead of saying anything revelant
First hand of experience should be cherished
Thank you. Well organised, clear & balanced explanation makes this video time well spent. D
this is such a high-quality, well-explained video! loved it
As a Chinese national, I have to say that I'm impressed by your effort trying to understand the different mentality of not just the Chinese politics, but the Chinese culture in general, instead of simply generalizing the US and China into 'democratic' or 'authoritarian', 'us' or 'them', 'good' or 'evil'. The two types of mentalities are just different, and we approach problems and have them solved differently, as you've mentioned. And if all the politicians on both sides make more effort to understand each other's positions and to find common ground, there will be much less animosity and antagonism, and the world would be a much better place than it is today. I seriously appreciate your effort.
Hear, hear
One thing China does that the USA doesn't...... China punishes their elites. In the USA you can attempt to overthrow the government, but if you are a connected elite like Trump and his gang you just get a slap on the wrist and can run for president again.
/boggle
The elites in the USA live by their own set of rules. And none of their rules come with harsh punishment. But it's been going on for a long time and Trump is the culmination of not punishing those in power. Eventually someone comes along that will ruin everything.
It's always a good idea to understand the opponent, but not necessary, or even good, to find common ground. After all, knowing your enemy is half the battle.
I agree but only if you consider the other side an adversary. Chinese people didn't view the US as an adversary until the Trump administration. We viewed the US as a trading partner. But all of a sudden the US started to feel the threat that China may create to its global hegemony (though most Chinese people don't even consider ourselves to have that capacity), and it started to derogate and villify everything China does. We didn't want to be an enemy, but when the other side said to the whole world that 'this is our public enemy here', what else can you do?
@@WChocoleta I meant it in general sense, not in this specific case. Have you seen the political tribalism within the US.
Excited to hear more of this China content. As always, thrilled to hear your insightful and objectivist takes on... everything you've covered so far.
great analysis, thanks so much for your research and clarity in presentation.
This is such a clean, simple and very in depth video. Best 22 minutes spent on CZcams. I really enjoyed it.
Thanks for making these videos Ryan, very succinct, articulate and educational - most importantly impartial. More people need to understand the foundations of political thought and philosophy and how it’s led to the modern dynamics we’re observing today. I think it’ll help develop a more peaceful way forward for the world.
This is valuable work in need of support!
That entire sectionon Marxism/the CPC (whose initialism this guy couldn't even spell correctly, proving his incompetence when it comes to discussing the subject) is just vapid nonsense. It's clear this guy never read any socialist theory in his life and never bothered researching the basics of Chinese politics.
@@lynth says the person who forgets to put a space between the words section and on.
Anyway I’m not one for point scoring and prefer to update my knowledge if what I’ve learned is incorrect. If you’d be enlightened enough to point me to the literature you rate over this, I’ll read it and it would be appreciated. Thanks.
I’m so grateful that I found your channel. My engagement in politics has always been from a visceral place, but over the past few years I realized that I need to engage in a more intellectual understanding of the subject so that I can be critical of my own opinions and more understanding of others. Your presentations are incredibly clear and thorough, and have helped me immensely. THANK YOU!
Very valuable content. Thanks for creating it!
Always good to get some understanding of how people think and act! Great job!
This was very informative and I look forward to the rest of the series!
Only seen a few videos, but they are extremely well researched and I think you do an excellent job at taking as objective of a look into these topics as possible. Ill definitely be looking into more of your content.
A very thoughtful review. Thank you fella
An absolutely thought provoking take on Chinese politics. Thanks for sharing this. Shall be waiting for more new content.
This channel is invaluable - well-researched, concise modules presented in the style of classical education (no overarching political agenda). I recommend you and share with many friends. I'm old and on a fixed income or I would certainly support you financially. I support you in every way I can. Keep 'em coming!!
I just want to say I appreciate the editing on your videos. I love that you display the cover art of the books you highlight in the bottom corner, makes it easy to snap a screenshot for reference later as needed.
Looking forward to seeing you delve into the topic further, given the nature of these politically tense and confusing times!
Definitely one of the better Western China Analyst that I ve seen online. I think the difference in thinking may also be rooted in the differences in historical experiences. The farming root and constant internal conflict between dynasties and ethinic groups enriched the chinese culture but also shaped the culture to be practical rather than idealogical. The original foundation of confucious and filial piety was that it will bring practical benefit. That same style of thinking transcribed into the chinese culture today.
And yet, neither, the Chinese nor the West can figure out how to distribute Wealth and Power among the individual citizens for the benefit of ALL citizens. The both ways of "thinking" result in EXTREME levels of Wealth and Power Concentrated in the hands of a very small group of human individuals. Basically, it is the same thinking.
Great stuff man, been binging your videos and I’ve been thoroughly enjoying them.
As a Malaysian Chinese, I think you have make the fairest representation of China in the whole of Western world. Bravo!
found your stuff the other day and wow I feel like I've gained so much insight in a short time, its really shown me how much I don't know about some very complicated but incredibly interesting stuff.
Interesting insights. Thanks for the work to put it all together.
Thank you kindly for this Mr. Chapman, I'm making an EdPuzzle for my students in my Chinese class using this video.
I am amazed that youtube recommended me what appears to be such an impressive level of insight and elegant craft of respectful yet concise knowledge. Will be looking forward to learn something more from your channel!
Ryan, your analytical ability to explain incredibly complex topics is just amazing. I've watched most of your channel and it has helped me understand and put in context our complicated modern world. Thank you for your effort and willingness to research and communicate your points of view.
I am glad I found your channel. Trully great stuff.
There are currents supporting or transporting our thinking that are so deep we may not have appreciated were there.
So it is always an agreeable and enlightening experience listening to Ryan Chapman uncover and explain these directions and speculate on where this thinking may be leading us.