English in China: Language, Identity and Culture

This book explores Chinese identity through the lens of both the Chinese and English languages, discussing the fear of weakening the Chinese identity due to the spread of culture associated with English. It presents observations based on data collected from four participant groups in China to investigate their perspectives on the status and roles of English and Chinese. The book appeals to readers interested in Chinas contemporary society, language, culture, and identity and can be used as a resource for academics, researchers, and students in applied linguistics, language education, and Chinese cultural studies.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 186 pages
\n Publication date: 30 March 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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This comprehensive volume delves into the multifaceted realm of Chinese identity, examining it through the lens of both the Chinese and English languages. Until the twentieth century, English was often associated with capitalists and military aggressors in China, casting a shadow over its cultural significance. However, the remarkable strides made in globalisation in China since the 1980s have transformed English into a vital tool for the country's modernisation efforts. Despite the evolving role of English in China, concerns have persisted about the potential erosion of Chinese identity due to the spread of cultural elements associated with English. This fear gave rise to the ti-yong principle, which advocates for a balanced approach to learning Chinese and Western knowledge, with a focus on preserving the essence of Chinese culture (ti) while embracing the utility of Western learning (yong).

Fong's book serves as a valuable contribution to our understanding of the ti-yong dichotomy in relation to individuals' sense of being Chinese in China, the infiltration of English into non-English-speaking societies, the ensuing tensions in personal and national identity, and their place in the global landscape. Through the use of Q methodology, the book presents insightful observations based on data collected from four distinct participant groups: high school and university students, teachers, and parents in China. These groups provide a diverse range of perspectives, shedding light on the status and roles of English as well as the perspectives of Chinese individuals regarding their language, culture, and identity.

Given the increasing global interest in China, this volume will appeal to readers seeking a comprehensive understanding of the country's contemporary society, language, culture, and identity. It serves as a valuable resource for academics, researchers, and students engaged in applied linguistics, language education, Chinese cultural studies, and related fields. Additionally, it can be adopted as a reference book for undergraduate courses that explore language, identity, and culture.

In conclusion, this volume offers a rich and insightful exploration of Chinese identity, shedding light on the complex interplay between Chinese and English languages and cultures. By examining the historical, social, and cultural factors that shape Chinese identity, the book provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing China in the globalised era. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Chinese society and culture.

\n Weight: 444g\n
Dimension: 159 x 243 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367430832\n \n