Hwang - Face and Favor

what are chinese social interactions and power relations guided by?

cultural norms, especially around face and favor

types of social interaction in chinese society

expressive ties, instrumental ties, mixed ties

expressive ties

close, emotional relationships (e.g., family); based on affection and moral obligation; long-term and trust-based

instrumental ties

goal-oriented, task specific (e.g., business deals); based on contractual exchange or mutual interest

mixed ties

relationships that evolve over time (e.g., acquaintances, colleagues) - involve favors and reciprocity

what kind of tie is key to guanxi?

mixed

mianzi

prestige or reputation based on success and social standing

lian

moral character and integrity, judged by others

what is a key social motivator in china?

protecting or enhancing face

losing face

public embarassment or shame

gaining face

boosting reputation or status

renqing

favor - refers to acts of kindness, help, or suport, which create social obligation; not just kindess - a moral-social currency that must be repaid in the furture

what does favor exchange do?

strengthens social bonds and builds guanxi

how do chinese people navigate social life?

balancing fave and favor

what is power?

being able to mobilize help and loyalty through relationship - not hierarchy or wealth

chinese power game

strategic use of renqing, face, and guanxi to build influence

what are social exchanges?

personal, moral, strategic

formal rules are less emphasized than what?

informal relational norms

why do chinese people invest in relationship-building?

gain long-term advantage and harmony

what do you need to understand to understand chinese social behavior/business?

face, favor, relational ethics