Abstract
As a result of economic reform commencing in 1978 in China, ethical behavior of the Chinese businesses is changing. The influence of Confucianism, Taoism, Sunzi Bingfa, and belief in a Heavenly God is reviewed based on data gathered from small and medium sized business during the Summer of 2006. Most Chinese businesses are small and family-owned, and in part, the emphasis on family ownership comes from the Confucianism beliefs of the importance of family. Taoism and Sunzi Bingfa are traditional Chinese beliefs that influence business decisions to varying degrees. Information was also gathered on the frequency of use of Guanxi and the importance of Face. Guanxi is a term meaning “connections” and has been a very important aspect of doing business in China and may be increasing in recent years. “Face” is a term used to show respect to both subordinates and superiors and has been very important through the ages, but it may be losing some relevance. These aspects of culture are reviewed in consideration of the change from a planned economy to a market based economy.
Highlights
A critical review of literature was conducted by Kenneth Wall that reviews recent publications concerning the Changes in Chinese culture occurring as a result of the economic reforms taking place in China
To investigate the changes evolving in Chinese business ethics, the researchers prepared a questionnaire that was mailed to over 5,000 businesses throughout China. 106 responses were received by returned mail. 16 of the 106 had not adequately completed the form to include them in the final statistics
The study of ethics suggests that determining right from wrong may be influenced by a countries culture, which is shaped by philosophical leanings of the society
Summary
The Chinese economy is evolving and undergoing major change and growth as a result of the conversion from a planned economy to a market economy. To investigate the changes evolving in Chinese business ethics, the researchers prepared a questionnaire that was mailed to over 5,000 businesses throughout China. Beliefs in Confucianism, Taoism, Sunzi Bingfa, Heavenly Power, Guanxi, and Face were considered aspects of the Chinese culture that may be undergoing change as a result of the conversion from the planned economy to a market economy. These aspects are importance to the Chinese culture and could provide insights as to how Chinese business ethics may be evolving. A brief synopsis of the statistic is provided for each of the ethical considerations
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