Let’s consider the wisdom of China to improve our relations with China. Confucius is possibly one of the most renowned teachers of all of humanity. He wrote the Analects, which comprise his teachings plus discussions with his students. It has frozen in time some influential morals and ideals that have…

The gap between current views toward China is vast. Approximately 65% of Americans, mostly older and Republican, hold an unfavorable view of China, up from 28% in 2006. But, I wonder how many of these individuals truly understand what they view unfavorably? A saying by Confucius, “知之为知之，不知为不知，是知也” simply stated means…

Culture or Politics? Recently, on LinkedIn, I’ve noticed frequent debates and divisions of perspectives. Noticeably, these divisions and debates are many times sparked by political views. Politics and culture are not the same. I am not going to explain politics because most of us know what it is and how it can become…

The Broader Concept of “忍” Ren The ability “to ren” may be one of the most important cultural aspects of how people are viewed in Chinese society. Over time, the inner strength that is expressed through the practice of ren can gain a person status, opportunity, and respect. The skilled application of ren could well be…

There is a Chinese saying that refers to the importance of an artist choosing high-quality ink in the creation of a masterpiece, 【惜墨如金】“Precious ink, as valuable as gold”. When we understand it from a holistic mindset, we can see that an artist is only one factor in the multi-faceted creation…