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Chinese Mind, Theby: Boye Lafayette De Mente
North Clarendon VT:
Tuttle Publishing 2009, $16.95, Paperback
ISBN: 978-0-8040-4011-8
Reviewed by: Jacqueline M. Newman
Fall Volume: 2011 Issue: 18(3) page(s): 18 and 19
 The author, considered an authority on Asia, has written more than thirty books about cultures and countries on that continent. This one's subtitle say: Understanding Traditional Chinese Beliefs and Their Influence on Contemporary Culture. An imprint of Periplus Editions (HK), this volume points to many areas of traditional values, some of which moved in the direction of the West. It highlights those that continue to play a significant role in business and social lives and gives what the author calls 'code words' that explain and define aspects of the national character of the Chinese.
After some notes about the name of the country and its language, and a very short introduction, the four parts of the book take deep looks into language, ethics and laws, also recent cultural influences. Some words reveal Chinese ways of thinking. The book overviews history, culture, philosophies, and food as it looks into the Chinese mind. For those going to China, this is a needed read. For those with Chinese business associates or neighbors, it provides glimpses into their thinking, saying, and acting. For all who want quick answers, the index at the end is handy. There one finds things one thinks one read, is unsure of, or wants to know about.
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