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.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

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. Despite its role, there has always been a lingering fear that the spread of cultures associated with English would erode the unique Chinese identity. This concern gave rise to the ti-yong principle, which advocates for Chinese learning for essence (ti) and Western learning for utility (yong).

In his book, Fong aims to enhance our understanding of the intricate 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 world. Employing the Q methodology, the book presents insightful observations based on data collected from four diverse participant groups: high school and university students, teachers, and parents in China. Through these perspectives, the book explores the status and roles of English, as well as those of Chinese, shedding light on the complex interplay between language, culture, and identity.

Given the growing international interest in China, this volume holds immense appeal to readers seeking to delve into the contemporary society, language, culture, and identity of this fascinating country. It serves as a valuable resource for academics, researchers, and students in the fields of applied linguistics, language education, Chinese cultural studies, and more. Additionally, it can be effectively adopted as a reference book for undergraduate courses that explore language, identity, and culture. By exploring the multifaceted dimensions of Chinese identity through the lens of both Chinese and English, this volume offers a comprehensive and insightful perspective on a nation undergoing rapid transformation.

Weight: 367g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367706630