Guanxi, Weiqi and Chinese Strategic Thinking

Abstract

In their perceptions and preferences of Guanxi, the Chinese follow a relational way of thinking, which is in stark contrast to the American generic way of thinking. This difference lies in how Chinese and Americans behave in playing board games and engaging with others in real life. The game of Weiqi signifies the Chinese way of gaming, whereas the game of Chess denotes the Western way of gaming. Chinese strategic thinking is relational and best exemplified in the way that the Chinese perceive and deal with various Guanxi in the game of Weiqi. The Chinese prefer to define their strategic goals in relative terms, employ a combination of various means to achieve good and stable Guanxi with other countries without defining any of them, or being defined by any of them, as an enemy. The Chinese also tend to favor a flexible foreign strategy with contingent adaptation as its principle, a favorable balance of shi as its linchpin, and such shortcomings as nearsightedness, greediness and impatience as its taboos.