Sistema di valori e modelli di comportamento in Cina

An appreciation of the pragmatic differences that exist between cultures is important because, in a world that is becoming smaller day after day, cultural misunderstandings often hinder communication and exacerbate mutual incomprehension. Conflicts and contrasts can be avoided only by acknowledging that one’s behavior is influenced by the whole set of values of the culture to which one belongs to. Starting from this remark, we shall first shed light on the fundamental principles of Chinese traditional thought, which shape and guide the perception of the self and of the other and defines Chinese identity; we shall then describe specific behavioral norms and conventions concerning politeness and propriety developed through the centuries by a society, namely the Chinese, where relations and harmony, instead of individual freedom and independence, are advocated as ultimate goal.