Session 11 readings (workshop, 4/21 afternoon)

[Donna Jamshidnejad]

I found the juxtaposition of Mao’s cultural revolution and the images reflecting western influence today very interesting. We learned about the push for agriculture and simplicity only to end with images of wedding photography centered on wealth. I had no idea that our consumer culture has influenced China in such a dramatic way. I do wonder how much this materialism is part of everyday Chinese culture. Were the images similar to a foreigner looking at the Kardashians and assuming that all Americans live like they do? While this course is not focused on modern China, I want to learn more about post-Mao China and how the culture has shifted away from traditional values (if it indeed has).

[Tanish Fortson]

The Cultural Revolution was a mass campaign that swept through China during the years of 1966-1976 and lead by Mao Zedong that aimed at reinforcing socialism with Chinese characteristics or Maoism. Capitalism and traditional Chinese culture were no longer practiced. Chinese propaganda was used to instigate the entire nation into believing that this was the way of life. I did not know that the characteristics and simplicity of the posters that was used was intentional to cater the educational level of the majority of the public and to deliver direct and clear information.  

Mao believed that powerful knowledge hindered the movement. Educated people were threats to his governance and tended to be rebellious. These type people were less likely to be controlled and tended to fight for what they thought to be right so they had to be reeducated. Several policies were reinforced to reshape the educational system. China went through political reform after Mao’s death in 1978. The youth in the countryside were allowed to go home. Universities were up and going again. Tourism became popular and helped the economy. Despite all the destruction and wiping out of historic sites and artifacts, China recovered and is now thriving. 

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