British scholar Martin Jacques delivered a sharp critique of Western approaches to China during the 2nd World Conference on China Studies, arguing that persistent misjudgments stem from an inability to accept cultural and political differences. "China is not Western, never has been, and never will be," Jacques stated, emphasizing that Western insistence on universalizing its own model has strained international relations.
Jacques, known for his work analyzing China's development, highlighted how Western predictions about China's economic collapse or political instability repeatedly fail. "The West expects every nation to follow its path, but this intolerance of difference ultimately damages its own credibility and interests," he explained. His remarks come amid growing global interest in understanding China's unique governance model and civilizational continuity.
The conference, attended by over 200 scholars from 60 countries and regions, focused on bridging cultural divides in China studies. Jacques urged Western institutions to move beyond "Cold War mentalities" and engage China on its own terms, particularly as Asian nations increasingly shape global economic and technological trends.
For business professionals and policymakers, the discussion underscores the importance of cultural competence in navigating China's $18 trillion economy. Academics noted the analysis provides fresh frameworks for studying non-Western development models, while diaspora communities welcomed calls for more nuanced cross-cultural dialogue.
