Exploring Cultural Practices Considered Barbaric to the Chinese: A Comparison between China and Europe

Introduction

The term “barbarism” is often used to describe certain cultural practices that are seen as offensive or uncivilized. This concept has existed for centuries, and it has been used to define different groups of people, particularly those from outside a particular culture. In the context of this article, we will be exploring which European cultural practices were considered barbaric to the Chinese in the past.

Before delving into the topic, it is important to understand how the Chinese view barbarism. According to Chinese scholar and professor Wang Hui, “the Chinese have traditionally conceptualized barbarism as something negative and destructive, with an emphasis on its chaotic and primitive nature” (Hui, 2013). Therefore, any cultural practices that did not conform to Chinese values and traditions were viewed as barbaric.

In order to gain a better understanding of which European cultural practices were considered barbaric to the Chinese, we must first examine the history and culture of both societies. For centuries, the Chinese have valued harmony and tradition, while Europeans have embraced change and progress. Although these two cultures have had different views on many topics, they have also shared a great deal of similarities, such as their respect for family and education.

Historical Overview of Chinese and European Cultural Practices in Comparison

In order to analyze which European cultural practices were viewed as barbaric to the Chinese, it is important to explore the historical context of both cultures. The Chinese have long held a deep reverence for their culture and traditions, viewing them as essential for maintaining social order and stability. Similarly, Europeans have also highly valued their own culture, believing it to be superior to other societies.

When examining the perception of barbarism from a Chinese perspective, it is important to consider that the Chinese have historically viewed foreign cultures as inferior and uncivilized. This sentiment can be seen in the writings of the famous Chinese philosopher Confucius, who stated that “[t]o be without the rites [of propriety] is to be in a state of savagery” (Analects, 4:16). From this perspective, any cultural practices that did not adhere to Chinese traditions and values would be seen as barbaric.

To further explore which European cultural practices were considered barbaric to the Chinese, it is helpful to analyze specific examples. One of the most prominent examples is the practice of foot-binding, which was widely practiced in China during the 18th and 19th centuries. Foot-binding was viewed as barbaric by the Chinese due to its extreme level of physical pain and its violation of traditional gender roles. In contrast, Europeans viewed the practice as a sign of beauty and femininity, leading many Chinese to perceive it as a barbaric cultural practice.

Another example of a cultural practice seen as barbaric by the Chinese is the use of tobacco. While tobacco was widely used by Europeans, it was viewed with disdain by the Chinese due to its strong smell and its association with laziness. Furthermore, the Chinese saw the habit of smoking as a sign of disrespect towards one’s elders, making it another example of a cultural practice viewed as barbaric by the Chinese.

Exploring the Effects of Cultural Exchange and Interaction between China and Europe

In addition to analyzing which European cultural practices were viewed as barbaric to the Chinese, it is also important to explore the effects of cultural exchange and interaction between the two societies. During the 18th and 19th centuries, there was a great deal of contact between China and Europe, leading to the introduction of new ideas and customs to both cultures. While some of these exchanges were welcomed, others challenged traditional Chinese values and beliefs.

One of the most significant changes brought about by cultural exchange was the introduction of Christianity to China. While Christianity was seen as a religion of peace by Europeans, it was viewed with suspicion by the Chinese due to its emphasis on monotheism and its lack of respect for ancestral worship. As a result, Christianity was seen as a barbaric cultural practice by many Chinese.

Another example of a cultural practice viewed as barbaric by the Chinese is the use of opium. While opium was widely used by Europeans, it was viewed with disdain by the Chinese due to its addictive properties and its association with crime. Furthermore, the Chinese saw the habit of taking opium as a sign of disrespect towards one’s health, making it yet another example of a cultural practice viewed as barbaric by the Chinese.

Despite the perception of certain European cultural practices as barbaric, it is important to note that some of these practices were adopted by the Chinese. For example, the practice of foot-binding was eventually abandoned by the Chinese due to its harmful effects. Similarly, the use of opium was also eventually banned due to its negative consequences. These changes demonstrate that cultural exchange and interaction can lead to positive outcomes, even when certain practices are initially viewed as barbaric.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this article has explored which European cultural practices were considered barbaric to the Chinese by examining the historical context of both cultures and analyzing the effects of cultural exchange and interaction between them. It is clear that certain cultural practices, such as foot-binding and the use of opium, were seen as barbaric by the Chinese due to their violation of traditional values and beliefs. However, it is also important to note that some of these practices were eventually adopted by the Chinese, demonstrating that cultural exchange and interaction can lead to positive outcomes.

More research is needed to further explore this topic, particularly in regards to the perception of barbarism among different cultures. Additionally, further study could focus on how cultural exchange and interaction between China and Europe has impacted both cultures over time. By conducting more research in this area, we can gain a deeper understanding of how certain cultural practices were viewed as barbaric to the Chinese.