Uncle Sam in no position to accuse China of nationalism
A recent article in The National Interest says that the Communist Party of China is stoking nationalism across the country, which the writer believes is a double-edged sword.
Western opinion and political elites have more often used the term “nationalism” to analyze China. From a global point of view, the contemporary concept of nationalism is so vague that it often mingles with patriotism. However, patriotism entails a positive meaning while nationalism is often despised as negative.
Rising nationalism in the US has caught more attention in the international arena due to issues such as the recent NBA row with China. Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey crossed the redline of China, rubbing the country the wrong way. He was supported by some American nationalists. However, NBA superstar LeBron James was condemned by some American politicians and netizens for his criticism of Morey’s abuse of so-called freedom of speech.
China’s rise has somehow caused panic in the West. Such inadaptability to a changing world pattern can be called typical nationalism. When such sentiments began to seep into US foreign policy, uncertainties arise.
The US, which has waged wars all over the world, criticizes nationalism in
China, a country which has not fought a war for decades and which has adopted a prudent attitude toward conflicts with smaller neighboring countries. How can such illogical views prevail in the West-dominated opinion sphere? Why do critical Western media outlets turn a blind eye?
US nationalism is fanning the flames. Patriotism and nationalism differ in that the former is defensive while the latter is offensive.
In 1991 and 2003, Washington launched the Gulf War and Iraq War. Recently, visas for Chinese students studying in the US have been restricted. Muslims feel it is now difficult for them to live in the US. This shows that US nationalism is exclusive.
In the eyes of some American elites, the US is an exceptional nation and is hence entitled to lead the world. US politicians often point fingers at other countries’ internal affairs. Take the NBA episode. Those who supported the Hong Kong protesters must have felt that they were full of a sense of justice. Nationalist sentiments can be found in countries that actively participate in global or regional contest. China won’t say it has nothing to do with nationalism. However, as an active participant and promoter of globalization, Chinese society respects differences, and it isn’t obsessed with exporting its culture and values. Unlike the US that suffers from a superiority complex, China has been respecting of other cultures.
That being said, how can the US be right in finding fault with Chinese nationalism? China as a country practices diplomacy that aims to create a peaceful and stable international environment for its development.
Peaceful development has not only been the will of Chinese society, but also a belief. Chinese people believe in win-win and a country that indulges in zero-sum mentality will never succeed.