Global Cultural Analysis: China

Running head: GLOBAL CULTURAL ANALYSIS: CHINA

International Business

Abstract

This paper provides an in depth perspective of the Global Cultural Analysis of People's Republic of China (PRC). In preparing this analysis, the following four questions were considered: what are the major elements and dimensions of culture in China, how are these elements and dimensions integrated by locals conducting business in China, how do both of the above items compare with US culture and business and what are the implications for US businesses that wish to conduct business in China. The answers to these questions can be utilized to further define China's standing in the today's global economy from a cultural point of view.

Introduction

The People's Republic of China (PRC) in most recent years has made its presence known in today's global economy. Here in the United States there are very few products that do not brandish the tag "Made in China". This phenomenon did not occur overnight but over a thirty year period of China reforming their economic policies and welcoming "outsiders" into their country. The end result is the ever increasing influence of China not only in the United States but in the world. Many words such as totalitarianism, censorship, Tiananmen Square, jailed dissidents, no free speech, no democracy, or no freedom of religion are typically associated with China the country. Despite this initial impression of China, this country has made an incredulous transformation one of isolationism to one of aggressively positioning itself in the global economy.

This paper will analyze the relevant schools of thought in relation to China's future from a global cultural perspective.

The Major Elements and Dimensions of Culture in China

After the Tiananmen Square Protests of 1989, the relationship between the World Powers and China were quite tentative. China essentially lost its economic standing due to this humanitarian disaster. The economic reforms that China's leadership had worked so hard to develop were deemed ineffective due to lost foreign direct investments contracts, the suspension of loans by the World Bank, Asian Development Banks, and foreign governments. Tourism which comprised a great part of their GDP profoundly dropped. China's regime instinctively wanted to roll back the reforms that were in place but it was met