De-Americanization - Finding the Positioning of Chinese Modernization

Author: Ding Gang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-12-01
Features: In the history of China, no Western country has had such extensive and profound influence on every aspect of China as the United States does today. The United States has become a convenient "yardstick" for many people to measure things around us. The author has been serving as a correspondent in Western countries for over a decade and has witnessed historic events such as the expansion of NATO eastward, the launch of the euro, and the "9·11" terrorist attacks. With the keen insight typical of an outstanding journalist, he observes the changes and impacts of Western society—especially the United States—and, like a thinker, extends his gaze to the future direction of the world and China's role in it. This book is the culmination of his observations and reflections over these ten years. As the generation that grew up with Coca-Cola, KFC, and McDonald's begins to become an active force in society, emulating Americans by driving large SUVs, living in big houses, and valuing brands becomes fashionable. To some, the United States of today seems like our tomorrow. The influence of Americanization spreads so effortlessly and rapidly not entirely because of its strength, but precisely because we have lost our cultural traditions in many ways. We must admit that there is nothing wrong with our pursuit of a prosperous and comfortable life. However, we must also clearly recognize that China cannot replicate the United States. Whether in politics, economy, culture, or natural conditions, it is impossible for a country with 1.3 billion people to become another United States. In light of this, Ding Gang, a reporter from the People's Daily, proposes that China should "de-Americanize." "Because we are unable to resist the encroachment of Americanization, we need to consciously 'de-Americanize'—this is the choice we must make," Ding Gang states. "De-Americanization" is an extraordinary concept. Proposing "de-Americanization" is not about promoting an anti-American ideology, but rather an elevation of rational understanding. China's modernization "must not follow the old path of the West," not even the "old path" of successful countries.