Introduction

The concept of ‘harmonization’ has become very popular in China, with the Chinese government increasingly applying the term ‘harmonious society’ to internal affairs and the term ‘harmonious world’ to international relationships. Harmonization as both an end and a means of China’s development is deeply rooted in China’s cultural tradition, which emphasizes moderation, balance and harmony between human beings and nature, between different social groups, and between the Chinese and other nationalities.

Scope of the Book

This book examines the experience of enacting the concept of harmonization in China in recent years. It explores this in terms of developments within Chinese society, economic developments and changes in business practices, environmental challenges and coping strategies, and changing patterns of international relations. Throughout, it discusses the gaps between rhetoric and reality, policy and practice.