Research on Chinese Etiquette and Customs

Author: Yang Zhigang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-05-01
Features: Since ancient times, etiquette has been a significant symbol of Chinese culture. For five thousand years, the "Land of Etiquette" has been a social ideal pursued by countless outstanding individuals and virtuous rulers in China, as well as a renowned reputation earned through their long-term efforts and struggles. China's "etiquette" culture has spanned thousands of years, unparalleled in the world, and its contributions to humanity are undeniable. This book comprehensively elaborates on the origin and evolution of ancient Chinese etiquette culture. In A Study of Chinese Etiquette Systems, Yang Zhigang frankly states that studying Chinese etiquette systems aims to "first clarify historical truths, uncover long-forgotten details, or trace the origins of events amidst conflicting historical accounts, thereby clarifying their meaning and value; second, based on this foundation, gain a deeper understanding of the development and evolution of Chinese history and culture, grasp their characteristics and essence, and thereby contribute to the modernization of Chinese culture." "Contribution" is achieved through a genuine understanding of traditional etiquette systems. The former is an elevation of the latter. Regarding "true understanding," Chen Yinque once made an insightful and affectionate observation: it is "to immerse oneself in contemplation, placing oneself in the same realm as the ancients who proposed these theories, and to empathize with their deliberate and painstaking efforts to hold such views." For example, when analyzing the origins of etiquette, the author relies on "true understanding" to discern truth from doubt. First, he carefully examines the rationality and limitations of theories such as the custom theory, human feelings theory, sacrificial ritual theory, and etiquette theory. Then, largely agreeing with Yang Kuan's etiquette theory, he adds his own supplementary thoughts: "Etiquette originated from ritual activities of primitive ancestors." Of course, this is not the final explanation. For instance, how did the rituals of primitive peoples come about? Naturally, any question can be endlessly pursued without end. However, in my view, this involves the intrinsic connection and chronological relationship between ritual activities and folk customs. Tracing further back, from etiquette to ritual activities, and then to folk activities, the last link in this chain undoubtedly holds greater significance. To achieve a profound understanding and empathy of etiquette, and to align with the daily lives of primitive ancestors through folk customs that are deeply intertwined, thereby revealing a shared identity, becomes particularly important.