Why China Doesn’t Want to Be Like the West – Understanding the Power of Collectivism
Many in the West are puzzled by why China hasn’t embraced liberal capitalism—free markets, democracy, and individual rights—especially after joining the global economy. But this confusion often comes from looking at China through a Western lens, without fully understanding its cultural roots, political priorities, and very different view of what makes a good society.
1. The West Thought China Would “Come Around”
For decades, Western leaders believed that if China joined the global economy—especially through the WTO—it would eventually become more like the U.S. or Europe: more democratic, more open, more individualistic.
This idea was based on the belief that liberal capitalism is the natural end-point for any modern society. But China had other ideas.
2. China Chose a Different Model
China embraced markets, but not Western-style democracy. Instead, it built a system where the government still plays a central role in guiding the economy and maintaining political control.
Rather than rushing into free-market reforms like Russia did in the 1990s (which led to chaos), China moved slowly and carefully, always keeping the Communist Party in charge.
3. China Isn’t Trying to Copy the West—It’s Building Something Else
China’s system isn’t a temporary phase on the way to liberal democracy. It’s a deliberate alternative.
The government uses its power to shape the economy, control key industries, and promote national goals. It’s not just playing by different rules—it’s trying to write new ones.
4. The Heart of the Difference: Collectivism vs. Individualism
In the West, especially in the U.S., society is built around the individual: personal freedom, self-expression, and the right to choose your own path.
In China, the foundation is different. Influenced by Confucianism, Chinese culture values the group—family, community, and nation—over the individual.
Harmony, duty, and fulfilling your role in society are seen as more important than standing out or challenging authority.
5. Family First, Then Society
In traditional Chinese society, the family is the core unit—not the individual. Children are taught to respect elders, fulfill obligations, and think about how their actions affect others.
This mindset extends to the workplace, education, and even politics. The idea is: if everyone does their part and puts the group first, society will be stable and strong.
6. The Role of the State
The Chinese government sees itself not just as a regulator, but as a guardian of national unity and social harmony.
Nationalism is used to tie personal success to the country’s success. People are encouraged to see their own well-being as part of a larger collective mission.
7. Why the West Gets It Wrong
Western analysts often assume that China is just behind on the path to liberal democracy. But China isn’t trying to catch up—it’s going in a different direction.
The West tends to project its own values onto China, expecting it to “open up” eventually. But that ignores how deeply rooted collectivism and state authority are in Chinese culture and politics.
🧭 In Summary
China’s rejection of liberal capitalism isn’t a misunderstanding or a delay—it’s a conscious choice. While the West celebrates individual freedom and market-driven change, China prioritizes social harmony, national unity, and collective well-being. These values come from centuries of Confucian thought and a long history of centralized governance. To understand China, the West needs to stop expecting it to follow the same path—and start recognizing that it’s building a different model altogether.
