Definition
Because the proponents of the concept came from different cultural backgrounds, no single definition of the term exists, but typically "Asian values" encompass some influences of Confucianism, in particular loyalty towards the family, corporation, and nation; the forgoing of personal freedom for the sake of society's stability and prosperity; the pursuit of academic and technological excellence; and work ethic and thrift. Proponents of "Asian values", who tend to support Asian-style authoritarian governments claim they are more appropriate for the region than Western democracy. These values found expression in the Bangkok Declaration of 1993, which reemphasized the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and noninterference.
A brief list of such "Asian Values" includes:
- Predisposition towards single-party rule rather than political pluralism
- Preference for social harmony (see Fraternization) and consensus as opposed to confrontation and dissent
- Concern with socio-economic well-being instead of civil liberties and human rights
- Preference for the welfare and collective well-being of the community over individual rights
- Loyalty and respect towards forms of authority including parents, teachers and government
- Collectivism and communitarianism over individualism and liberalism
- Authoritarian governments (which have certain responsibilities as well as privileges) as opposed to liberal democracy.
Read more about this topic: Asian Values
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