Document Type : Research Paper
Author
Postdoctoral researcher at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction
This research investigates the persistent structural role of the Chinese government in the construction of national identity, particularly amidst significant historical, ideological, and economic transformations. The study addresses the challenge of maintaining a cohesive collective identity, a task often spearheaded by the state, especially during transitions such as the shift from Confucian tradition to Socialism with Chinese characteristics. The core objective is to analyze how the state has continuously defined the collective “us” through various strategies. This includes examining the ideological instrumentalization of Confucianism and the state’s active role in crafting a selective historical narrative to foster a sense of shared destiny and legitimacy. Furthermore, the research explores how contemporary concepts like the “Chinese Dream” are employed to bolster national pride and unite diverse populations under a unified cultural and civil identity. The overarching aim is to understand the intricate mechanisms through which the state shapes and perpetuates national identity in contemporary China.
across a long historical trajectory, from imperial Confucianism through the founding of the PRC, Maoist era, reform and opening up, to the present day under Xi Jinping. It emphasizes the structural continuity of the state’s function in defining national identity, even as ideological content evolved from Confucianism to Marxism and then to Socialism with Chinese Characteristics. The study differentiates between the philosophical essence of Confucianism and its state-sanctioned, reinterpreted application for nation-building. It highlights how elements like meritocracy and state ethics, reinterpreted from Confucianism, have been integrated into contemporary official discourse to address limitations in classical Marxism.
Research Objectives
This research aims to investigate the continuity of the state’s role in the construction of national identity in China. It seeks to analyze how, despite significant ideological shifts from Confucianism to Marxism and then to “Socialism with Chinese Characteristics,” the state has consistently maintained its central function in defining and reproducing national identity. The study intends to highlight the structural persistence of state-led identity projects across different historical periods, differentiating between the state’s enduring role and the evolving ideological content it employs. Ultimately, the research endeavors to provide a nuanced understanding of the state’s persistent influence on national identity in China throughout its modern history.
Materials and Methods
This research employs a qualitative, historical analysis methodology. It primarily relies on secondary sources, including academic books, journal articles, and official Chinese government documents, to trace the evolution of state-led national identity construction. The study adopts a diachronic approach, examining shifts and continuities in state policies and ideological discourse from the late imperial period to the present day. By analyzing primary and secondary historical materials, the research aims to identify patterns and persistent strategies employed by the Chinese state in shaping national identity across different political and ideological regimes.
Results and Discussion The research findings indicate a significant and persistent role of the state in constructing China’s national identity, transcending ideological shifts. Despite transformations from Confucianism to Marxism and “Socialism with Chinese Characteristics,” the state has consistently utilized education, media, and cultural institutions to promote a unified national narrative. While the content of this narrative has evolved, the structural mechanisms of state-led identity formation have remained remarkably stable. The study highlights how the Chinese government actively manages historical discourse and promotes a particular version of national heritage to foster social cohesion and political legitimacy.
Conclusion
The study highlights the persistent and significant role of the state in constructing China’s national identity, a process that has transcended ideological shifts. Despite transitions from Confucianism to Marxism and then to “Socialism with Chinese Characteristics,” the government has consistently utilized educational, media, and cultural institutions to foster a unified national narrative. While the content of this narrative has evolved, the state-led structural mechanisms for identity formation have remained remarkably stable. This demonstrates the Chinese state’s active management of historical discourse, promoting a specific version of national heritage to bolster social cohesion and political legitimacy.
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