Containment Through A Cultural Lens

By Li Qingyun

W hile many countries around the world have struggled to contain and overcome COVID-19， often relying on the vaccines to come to their aid like magic bullets， several have demonstrated certain special， more befitting capacities for taking on the challenge and moving forward. In China， one such example， the interplay of governance capacity and cultural roots has proved conducive to fighting the pandemic and played a decisive role in its success.

Core values

China has grown into a modern and scientifically oriented country， but traditional Chinese culture， including Confucianism， continues to influence， positively， both the governed and those who govern them. These influences emphasize both the individual and collective responsibility for wellbeing， social stability and patriotism.

According to concepts of Confucianism， a system of thought developed from the teachings of ancient philosopher Confucius who lived some 2，500 years ago， good faith is regarded as an important manifestation of benevolence and a necessary virtue for a sage. Anyone who is truthful in their words and behavior can gain the trust of others. If those in power commit themselves to taking credible steps to advance public interests， the people will trust them.

These principles become most evident when the country is in crisis. Chinese trust their government and are willing to follow COVID-19 containment rules to help their countrymen and their nation at large to tide over the difficulties. In return， they expect security， solidarity and social unity. The peoples active response to the governments call and their cooperation have resulted in all of society participating in the anti-COVID-19 efforts spearheaded by government organs and social organizations.

The people of China value a deep commitment to society and forge social bonds that outweigh the concept of individualism. The sense of national identity and cohesion makes them willing to stick together in weal and woe， share their burdens， and， in the most recent instance， contain COVID-19 via concerted efforts. Their selfdiscipline and willingness to sacrifice their own gains or comforts for the greater good have facilitated the Central Governments implementation of prevention and control measures.

As the government implemented lockdowns on severely affected areas as well as strict community management， quarantine and social distancing requirements， support from members of society laid the foundations for effectively and rapidly reducing infections.