China, Balancing Western Materialism With Eastern Spirituality By Sawraj Singh, MD F.I.C.S.

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These values are very relevant in modern Chinese society. Many Confucian schools are opening in China. Parents who send their young children to these schools feel that they are very good for their children as well as for Chinese society. There is a feeling that Chinese society is getting too focused on material things and ignoring the spiritual aspect of life. The parents hope that by attending these schools, their children will learn virtues such as courtesy, kindness, and respect for elders.

This phenomenon of the revival of Confucianism in China only shows that attitudes change according to changed conditions. During the cultural revolution, China perceived Confucianism as an obstacle in the development of socialism in China. However, globalization has made it clear that now, the threat of western cultural invasion has become the major concern for Chinese society. Under the changed conditions, Confucianism is finding a new relevance.

Whatever is happening in China is not unique to China, but is a problem faced by the whole world. The biggest problem faced by mankind is that under the influence of globalization, the highest stage of capitalism, there is unbalanced growth. There is only emphasis on material growth but the spiritual aspect of life has been ignored. All of the societies are paying the price for this imbalance. Western materialism has to be balanced by Eastern spirituality. Confucius is now seen as a representative of Eastern spirituality in China. Confucianism is an essential part of Eastern spirituality. Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda is also recognizing this; on his recent visit to China, he paid homage to Confucius by visiting his grave.

Chairman Mao Tse Tung deviated from traditional Marxism when he said that culture is an independent entity. Traditional Marxism considered culture only as a manifestation of the underlying economic infrastructure. However, Chairman Mao fell short of endorsing spirituality as an essential element of culture. As capitalism has developed to a new stage, new contradictions have emerged. Therefore, the revival of Eastern spirituality is vital to combat the ill effects of globalization.