Modernity and tradition in China: The ‘tribute system’, and the absurdity of sinophobia

Written by Colin Mackerras In many ways, the impact of modernity in China is balanced by traditional patterns. In foreign relations, the modern notion of sovereignty is central, but the traditional thinking behind what historians call “the tribute system” still explains some of what China does and its attitude to the world and its neighbourhood. A … Continue reading Modernity and tradition in China: The ‘tribute system’, and the absurdity of sinophobia Continue reading »