This interview with historian Professor Xu Guoqi explores the major themes of his latest book The Idea of China at a moment marked by the weakening of the international order and the global resurgence of nationalism.
We begin by tracing the changing meanings of “China” and “Chineseness.” The conversation then moves to thinking about Chinese universalism, its alignments and tensions with Western liberalism, conflicts between evolving historical identities and the projection of a stable national order, and the role of “cooked past” in constructing modern Chinese identity. We also discuss the importance of diasporas, foreign influences, sport, religion, and bodily discipline in shaping modern China beyond purely political or economic frameworks. Finally, the interview reflects on the relationship between science, democracy, and governance in contemporary China, and what alternative histories of “Chineseness” might still remain possible.
The interview was conducted by Anubha Anushree. Alina Young edited the audiofile.
