French philosopher and cultural expert Christine Cayol has long been fascinated by the Chinese perception of time. In a recent discussion on ChinaTalk, Cayol delved into why Chinese people seem to “always have time” and how their view of time differs from that of the French.
Cayol, who founded the cultural exchange platform Yishu 8, shared her insights into the fluidity of time in Chinese society. “In China, time is not measured strictly by the clock but is seen as a flexible concept that accommodates relationships and social harmony,” she explained.
She highlighted that while Western cultures often prioritize schedules and punctuality, emphasizing efficiency, Chinese culture places greater value on adaptability and the quality of interactions. This difference can lead to misunderstandings but also offers a rich opportunity for cross-cultural learning.
Cayol’s observations shed light on the importance of understanding cultural perspectives on time, especially in an increasingly globalized world. By appreciating these differences, business professionals, travelers, and scholars can foster better communication and strengthen international relationships.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
