Problem
For the three of the cultures examined in this module, China, Japan, and Korea, Confucianism sets the basis for how to live your life in society. From government to family structure, respectful interactions are suggested. Fatherly love, tolerance, humility, proper behavior, and respect for elders are all values to be incorporated in life.
In America, our relations to society and to family are very different than those valued in Confucianism. As children of traditional parents grow up in America, there can be a conflict between these value systems. Asian American teens and children are sometimes under increased stress trying to reconcile these two values.
1) How do you think this integration affects Chinese American children growing up in America?
2) How do they manage to balance family and peer (non- Confucian) groups?
3) How does Confucianism influence the Asian food culture?
4) Lastly, how do you think this class would be conducted differently if it was conducted in a Confucian style?