Chinese Medicine and Transnational Transition during the Modern Era: Commodification, Hybridity, and Segregation

This book explores the transition of Chinese medicine during the modern era, analyzing the development of product and service niches in China, Malaysia, Japan, and the Philippines. It argues that transnational factors such as Western influence, modern state adoption, and global commodification play a significant role in this transition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate transformation of Chinese medicine during the modern era, shedding light on the emergence of distinct product and service niches in select countries: China, Malaysia, Japan, and the Philippines. Through a thorough investigation of the key players driving this transition, the study explores the profound ways in which these actors influence and shape the process. It contends that the transnational journey of Chinese medicine is intricately woven with a multitude of factors, including spontaneous cultural and social dynamics such as population growth, technological innovation, and acculturation. Moreover, it acknowledges the significant influence of hegemonic political and economic forces, including Western influence, the adoption of modern state philosophies, and the global commodification of indigenous medical specialties.

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The modern era has witnessed a remarkable transformation of Chinese medicine, as it has adapted and evolved to meet the changing needs of society. This volume explores the intricate process of this transition, focusing on the development of product and service niches in select countries: China, Malaysia, Japan, and the Philippines. By examining the major actors behind this shift, the study seeks to understand the various factors that have influenced and shaped this transnational journey.

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One of the key factors contributing to the transition of Chinese medicine is population growth. As the world's population continues to expand, there is a growing demand for healthcare services that are both effective and accessible. Chinese medicine, with its rich history and traditional practices, has positioned itself as a viable alternative to Western medicine, particularly in developing countries where resources are limited.

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Technological innovation has also played a significant role in the transformation of Chinese medicine. With advancements in medical technology, traditional Chinese medicine techniques have been refined and modernized, making them more effective and accessible to a wider audience. For example, the use of electronic medical records and telemedicine has made it easier for patients to access Chinese medicine services, regardless of their location.

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Acculturation is another important factor that has influenced the transition of Chinese medicine. As Chinese immigrants spread across the world, they brought with them their cultural practices and beliefs, including traditional medicine. These practices have been integrated into local healthcare systems, creating a hybrid form of medicine that combines traditional Chinese medicine with Western medicine.

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However, the transnational transition of Chinese medicine is not solely driven by cultural and social factors. Hegemonic political and economic forces, such as Western influence, the adoption of modern state philosophies, and the global commodification of indigenous medical specialties, have also played a significant role. Western countries have often sought to incorporate Chinese medicine into their healthcare systems, recognizing its potential benefits and the growing demand for alternative therapies.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811599514
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021