Understanding China

Austin College students offer insights on social interaction in China.

Despite China’s modernization and what some even have called Westernization, Don Rodgers, assistant professor of political science, is emphatic that Americans not make the mistake of thinking China wants to be “us.” The Chinese people, as well as most in East Asia, are strongly influenced by Confucian political philosophy and social structures, he said. “A one-way ticket to poor relations with China would be to define things on our terms alone,” Jason DiBona ’08 said. “I learned that you have to earn levels of trust and sometimes be the first to prove that what you seek is not China’s help or resources, but rather a relationship that works for both sides.” He said the concept could apply to both diplomatic and individual relationships with the Chinese.

Both DiBona and Will Radke ’08 quickly learned the importance of relationships and class structure to the Chinese people during their studies and internships there. “One of the first things you do when you meet someone is exchange business cards,” Radke said. “The all -important title comes into play. Once it is established who is higher in rank, the conversation can proceed.” From his internships with Deloitte, Radke observed that often the most important business dealings aren’t conducted in offices like in the U.S., but at someone’s home or a restaurant, often taking more than one or two visits. “What you’re looking for is the right time, place, and mood,” he said. “Your entire evening might boil down to a five-to-15-minute conversation.”