Traditional Chinese culture is important

Some Chinese netizens have questioned, even criticized, the Ministry of Education's "Blessing the Motherland" program. But programs that promote traditional Chinese culture and values among the younger generation deserve our support, says an article on Xinhuanet. Excerpts:

Last month, the Ministry of Education asked all schools to get their students to take part in an online "Blessing the Motherland" program during Spring Festival. But, surprisingly, some netizens have questioned, even criticized, the proposal.

Economic globalization has brought about cultural diversity in China. As a result, many young people prefer to celebrate Christmas, Valentine's Day and other Western festivals to traditional Chinese festivals such as Dragon Boat Festival. It is important to teach the importance of Chinese culture to such people if we don't want the traditional festivals to become history.

Coincidently, the lunar new year starts on Feb 14, celebrated as Valentine's Day only in the West till a few years ago but now a sort of craze among youths in China's cities. That's why the "Blessing the Motherland" is important; it is aimed at making students attach more importance to Spring Festival and traditional Chinese culture.

Competition among countries today is no longer a simple affair. It transcends economics and military might, and includes cultural soft power. Some developed countries are using their cultural soft power to the hilt to promote their values and ways of life across the world.

Under such circumstances, it is essential for China to strengthen the influence of its traditional culture and enhance Chinese people's sense of identity and national pride.

(China Daily 02/10/2010 page9)