Zhong (Centrality), Self-Competence, and Social/Communication Competence: A Chinese Perspective

Abstract

The discourse of zhong (centrality) has dominated the study of Chinese philosophy for more than 2000 years. Zhong, dictating the interplay of yin and yang motivated by chi, is the foundation of the paradigmatic assumptions of Chinese culture. In order to regulate the motion of chi to reach the holistic state of equilibrium, shou zhong (nurturing zhong) is considered to be not only the most effective way of cultivating self-competence, but also the key to the success of social interaction in Chinese society. This paper attempts to delineate the nature of zhong and further applies it to demystify the meaning of self and social/communication competence from a Chinese cultural perspective.

Keywords

Zhong / self-competence / social/communication competence / harmony

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