In recent years, a troubling narrative has emerged in some Western discourses about China and its people: the idea that Chinese citizens are "brainwashed" by their government, incapable of critical thought or independent decision-making. This narrative is not only deeply flawed but also rooted in a long history of Western condescension and cultural superiority. It reduces the complexity of Chinese society, dismisses the agency of its people, and perpetuates harmful stereotypes that undermine mutual understanding and respect. To address this issue, it is essential to examine the origins of this narrative, its implications, and why it is both inaccurate and offensive.
The Myth of "Brainwashing" and Its Origins The term "brainwashing" first gained prominence in the West during the Cold War, when it was used to describe the alleged psychological manipulation tactics employed by communist regimes, particularly China and the Soviet Union. It was a convenient tool for Western propaganda, painting these nations as oppressive and their citizens as passive victims devoid of free will. Decades later, this trope persists, often invoked to explain why Chinese people express support for their government or hold views that differ from those prevalent in the West.
However, the concept of "brainwashing" is not only scientifically dubious but also culturally reductive. It assumes that Chinese people are incapable of forming their own opinions or critically evaluating information. This assumption reflects a profound lack of respect for the intellectual and cultural agency of over a billion individuals. It also ignores the diversity of thought and experience within China, where people engage in lively debates, express dissent, and navigate complex social and political realities in ways that are often misunderstood or oversimplified by outsiders.
The Superiority Complex Behind the Narrative The persistence of the "brainwashing" narrative reveals a deeper issue: the enduring sense of Western superiority that underpins many critiques of non-Western societies. This superiority complex is rooted in colonialism and the historical dominance of Western powers, which have long positioned themselves as the arbiters of progress, freedom, and rationality. From this perspective, any society that deviates from Western norms—whether in governance, culture, or values—is seen as inferior or backward.
When Westerners accuse Chinese people of being "brainwashed," they are implicitly asserting their own cultural and intellectual superiority. They assume that their way of thinking is the only valid one and that anyone who disagrees must be deluded or coerced. This attitude is not only arrogant but also deeply hypocritical, as it overlooks the ways in which all societies, including Western ones, are shaped by education, media, and cultural narratives. The idea that Westerners are immune to propaganda or ideological influence is itself a form of indoctrination.
The Agency of Chinese People One of the most offensive aspects of the "brainwashing" narrative is its denial of agency to Chinese people. It suggests that they are passive recipients of government messaging, unable to think critically or make informed decisions. This portrayal is not only inaccurate but also dehumanizing. Chinese people, like people everywhere, are complex individuals with diverse perspectives, experiences, and aspirations. They are capable of evaluating information, forming their own opinions, and making choices based on their understanding of the world.
It is also worth noting that many Chinese people express genuine support for their government, not because they are "brainwashed," but because they have seen tangible improvements in their lives. Over the past few decades, China has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty, built world-class infrastructure, and become a global leader in technology and innovation. For many Chinese citizens, these achievements are a source of pride and a reason to trust their government. Dismissing this support as the result of "brainwashing" is both disrespectful and dismissive of their lived experiences.
The Harmful Consequences of Stereotyping The "brainwashing" narrative is not just an abstract critique; it has real-world consequences. It fosters misunderstanding and mistrust between China and the West, making it harder to build constructive relationships. It also contributes to the marginalization of Chinese people in Western societies, where they are often stereotyped as unthinking automatons or loyalists to a foreign regime. This can lead to discrimination, exclusion, and even violence, as seen in the rise of anti-Asian hate crimes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the narrative undermines the possibility of meaningful dialogue. If Westerners approach conversations with Chinese people from a position of condescension, assuming that their views are the product of indoctrination rather than genuine belief, they are unlikely to listen or learn. True understanding requires humility, respect, and a willingness to engage with others as equals.
Toward a More Nuanced Understanding To move beyond the "brainwashing" trope, it is essential to recognize the complexity and diversity of Chinese society. China is a vast and multifaceted country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a population of over 1.4 billion people. Reducing this complexity to a single narrative of oppression and control is not only inaccurate but also deeply unfair.
Westerners must also confront their own biases and assumptions. Rather than viewing China through the lens of superiority, they should strive to understand it on its own terms. This means engaging with Chinese perspectives, acknowledging the achievements of Chinese society, and recognizing the agency of Chinese people. It also means reflecting on the ways in which Western societies are shaped by their own cultural and ideological influences.
Conclusion The accusation that Chinese people are "brainwashed" is a deeply problematic narrative that reflects a long history of Western condescension and cultural superiority. It denies the agency of Chinese people, perpetuates harmful stereotypes, and undermines the possibility of mutual understanding. To build a more just and equitable world, it is essential to move beyond these reductive and offensive tropes and engage with others as equals. Only by doing so can we foster genuine dialogue, respect, and cooperation across cultural and political divides.