Social Self-Criticism and the Shaping of Chinese National Identity

The practice of social self-criticism (SSC) is a dynamic process through which society, as the subject, critically evaluates its negative aspects, generating a heightened awareness of its deficiencies. This form of self-critique exhibits two distinct phases: occurring during relatively stable societal periods and manifesting in times of unrest. This study explores the profound influence of SSC on the Chinese national spirit (CNS), emphasizing that during periods of societal upheaval, its impact surpasses that of relatively peaceful eras. To illustrate this point, this paper delves into two pivotal historical epochs, the era of Warring States during the spring and autumn seasons and the May Fourth Movement of 1919; information was gathered via interviews conducted with 174 students studying at a university in China. The study results revealed that an enriched and developed Chinese national consciousness is characterized by increased openness, creativity, self-criticism, and self-determination. These attributes are evident in social interactions, featuring heightened openness, innovation, individual self-awareness, and a robust self-critical spirit. The novelty of this research is found in its focus on the contemporary influence of SSC on the ever-evolving CNS within the context of rapid modernization and globalization. The emergence of heightened social self-awareness has invigorated the Chinese awareness of nationality, and as a result, SSC in China has served as a crucial factor in cultivating and evolving the national spirit. This study enhances the comprehension of the profound influence of social self-critique on national identity and the varying impacts it has during different societal periods.